A total of $6.1 million was allocated to the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Capital Works Program for the Cooroy replacement police facility.
Minister for Police and Community Safety, the Honourable Mark Ryan MP, joined Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski APM and State Member for Nicklin, Rob Skelton MP to officially open the new Cooroy Police Station and unveil a plaque commemorating the occasion.
The event coincided with the retirement of Officer in Charge (OIC) Sergeant Mal Scott, who has served the Cooroy community for nearly 30 years, including 24 years as OIC.
The original Cooroy Police Station and residence was opened on December 2, 1911.
In 1994, police relocated to a former Department of Primary Industries building also located on the same land, where they remained until construction of the new Cooroy Police Station was completed.
Construction of the new Cooroy Police Station was completed on July 9 and became operational on July 25.
The QPS engaged closely with the Cooroy community regarding the replacement station project, hosting community forums regarding the design and seeking feedback to ensure the project met community needs.
Unfortunately, Sergeant Scott won't get to enjoy the new facilities and jokes about working 27 years in Cooroy but only getting 27 days in the new station.
Sergeant Scott commenced at the Queensland Police Academy on January 17, 1983 and has 41 years of service, all of which has been in general duties across locations including Brisbane, Dalby and Longreach.
Sergeant Scott commenced at Cooroy Police Station on November 18, 1997 before his promotion to Officer in Charge on November 6, 2000.
He has served Cooroy and surrounding areas with diligence for approximately 27 years and is highly regarded within the Cooroy community.
The entire Queensland community sincerely thanks Sergeant Scott for his notable and invaluable contributions to the QPS and the Cooroy community.
As stated by Minister Mark Ryan:
"This new $6 million facility is an investment in community safety and the capabilities of the QPS."
"The QPS took great care to consult the community regarding the design of the façade of the new station to ensure it is truly a valued community asset.
"This new police station has been designed by the community, for the community and supports that outstanding service of the QPS on behalf of the community."
As stated by the Member for Nicklin, Rob Skelton:
"This new facility is a fantastic addition to Cooroy community, and I know it will go a long way in enhancing community safety.
"As well, the opening of this station is coinciding with the retirement of a great pillar of this community, Sergeant Mal Scott whose 27 years of services have been invaluable.
"I'd like to thank Sergeant Scott for all of his hard work, and contributions to the Cooroy community."
As stated by Commissioner Steve Gollschewski:
"The new police station will help enhance policing services to the local community now and into the future.
"The QPS is committed to ensuring that Cooroy and the surrounding communities are safe and feels safe.
"I would like to acknowledge the long-term Officer in Charge of Cooroy Police Station, Sergeant Scott, for the contribution he has made to QPS and the local community. I wish him all the best for his retirement."
