- 22 new Custodial Correctional Officers join the public safety frontline in North Queensland.
- All 22 have completed an intensive, 10-week Custodial Officer Entry program.
Former real estate agents, security officers and Defence Personnel are among 22 new officers to successfully complete the 10-week Custodial Officer Entry program in North Queensland.
The new Custodial Correctional Officers are starting new careers on the frontline of public safety at the Townsville Correctional Complex following a graduation ceremony on Friday, 13 September with family and friends.
Led by experienced instructors from the Queensland Corrective Services Academy, the entry program includes training in conflict management, tactical skills and QCS policies and legislation to assist with prisoner rehabilitation.
At the ceremony, three officers with 70 years of experience between them were recognised with the Long Service and Good Conduct Medal while six officers were awarded the National Medal.
Queensland Corrective Services is actively recruiting for good, public safety focused jobs and careers including trade instructors, dog squad officers, psychologists, counsellors, cultural liaison officers and administration.
Quotes attributable to Member for Mundingburra Les Walker:
"I want to thank the North's newest frontline Correctional Officers for their commitment to the safety of our community.
"Each graduate brings to the frontline the expert training of the QCS Academy's instructors, together with their own professional backgrounds.
"These skilled officers will be an important asset to the Townsville Correctional Complex and its laser-sharp focus on innovative and evidence-based rehabilitation.
"We need good, well-trained people to keep correctional centres running smoothly, because the safety of Queenslanders is always a Government priority."
Quotes attributable to Stuart McHaffie, Acting Assistant Commissioner, Central and Northern Region Command QCS:
"Congratulations to our newest correctional officers for their commitment and service to frontline public safety.
"Our graduates come from different walks of life with different life experiences, and are equipped with the highest level of training, skills and support to enable them to perform their roles safely and effectively.
"Queensland Corrective Services is an essential part of our criminal justice system, delivering innovative, effective, evidence-based correctional services, which contribute to a safer Queensland."
Quotes attributable to Chief Superintendent Louise Kneeshaw, General Manager, Townsville Correctional Complex:
"We welcome our 22 newest Custodial Correctional Officers to Townsville and thank them for their commitment to helping keep communities safe.
"Our officers are our greatest asset, and we strive to ensure they are supported as they carry out their often-unseen duties.
"Every interaction our officers have is an opportunity to address offending behaviour and to improve the vocational and life skills of prisoners, assisting in their rehabilitation and reintegration back into the community."
