Today marks the end of an era for South Australia Police (SAPOL) with the final handover of the Thebarton Barracks site after more than 100 years.
Following a final walkthrough this afternoon, SAPOL handed over the keys to builders behind the new Women's and Children's Hospital project.
Commissioner of Police Grant Stevens acknowledged the goodbye felt "bittersweet".
"For over a century, Thebarton Barracks has been a cornerstone of our operations, witnessing countless milestones and serving as a testament to SAPOL's enduring legacy," he said.
"As we turn the page on this chapter of our history, we have an opportunity to weave cherished traditions into new and innovative ways of operating.
"While Thebarton Barracks was state-of-the-art when it was built in 1914, we had outgrown the stables and buildings, and this move has allowed us to acquire modern facilities."
The Thebarton Barracks Project Team has been collaborating with the government for the past two years to ensure staff have modern, fit-for-purpose accommodation that meets SAPOL's operational requirements.
Throughout August and September remaining units at Thebarton Barracks vacated the site for their new locations. While some are in temporary accommodation, as their new facilities are not yet complete, work is progressing as a priority to ensure they receive the same high-quality, fit-for-purpose sites soon.
Last week, the first stage of new state-of-the-art facilities at Gepps Cross, housing Mounted Operations Unit, was unveiled, and the new Road Safety Centre at West Beach will soon be formally opened to the public.
As a final goodbye, a short commemorative video has been prepared which can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/rtd_FdEpEXI
Project Sponsor Chief Superintendent John De Candia handing over the Thebarton Barracks keys to Senior Project Manager of the new Women's and Children's Hospital James Patrick on Monday 30 September.
Lendlease Site Manager Nathan Peal ready to get to work after Project Sponsor Chief Superintendent John De Candia handed over the Thebarton Barracks keys to Senior Project Manager of the new Women's and Children's Hospital James Patrick on Monday 30 September.
