Every August 19, World Photography Day highlights a photograph's power to evoke emotion, tell stories and connect people. Explore Queensland, from the Far North to the Southwest corner, in these photos from Queensland police officers.
Bamaga, Far North Queensland
Constable Samuel Turner is stationed in Bamaga, a First Nations Community of 3,000 people at the tip of Far North Queensland.
Before moving to the Cape, Constable Turner completed First Year Constable training in Cairns, which he described as a fantastic station to learn at a fast pace and understand the fundamentals of policing.
"Being in a community like Bamaga uses a different skill set. Understanding back-up isn't a radio call away, working with more autonomy and being able to do complex investigations for serious offences are some of the experiences you will gain – not to mention the slower pace, work-life balance and generous allowances!"
Laura, Far North Queensland
Constable Shelly Wright joined the QPS five years ago and is currently stationed in Cardwell, roughly halfway between Cairns and Townsville.
"Far North Queensland gives me the opportunity, both within and outside of work, to explore some amazing locations," said Constable Wright.
"There are ample chances to relieve at smaller country towns and special events when you are based in North Queensland. These opportunities build skills and offer a fantastic policing experience in remote and outback Australia."
Thargomindah, Southern Region
For the past four years, Senior Constable Brenden Blackford has served at the remote, two-officer Thargomindah Station – part of a 66,000 square kilometre division bordering South Australia and New South Wales.
"I enjoy working in the southwest as we work as a team and understand each other's challenges. Small towns embrace their police if you have the right attitude, and I encourage everyone interested in a policing career to jump at opportunities to relieve in remote or regional locations."
Karumba, North Queensland
Acting Sergeant Ebony Morgan is stationed in the Gulf town of Karumba – a beautiful town in Queensland's Far North, with a wonderful community she says is always willing to assist.
With over ten years in the Service, A/Sgt Morgan knows no two days are the same, and rural deployment brings some unique jobs, such as rescuing two tourists in a small boat stranded 400m offshore at low tide.
"I called the local Queensland Boating and Fisheries (QBF) officer and a local helicopter pilot for assistance, both of whom immediately agreed to assist in the rescue," she explained.
"As the helicopter landed on the rocks, I swiftly boarded it, and we set out to the couple. I dropped our rope and headed back to shore where QBF Horn and I pulled their boat back to safety using the vehicle winch."
Lockhart River, Far North Queensland
During his 21 years of service, Senior Constable Nathan Brayshaw has seen various deployments including the remote Lockhart River in Far North Queensland and the vibrant Gold Coast in the state's southeast.
"Working in a regional or rural stations can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering the opportunity to make a real difference in a tight-knit community and develop a broad range of skills in a supportive environment," he said.
"To thrive in such a role though, it's essential to be flexible, adaptable, and willing to take on new challenges, while also being mindful of self-care and seeking support when needed."
Policing Lockhart River offers an unparalleled adventure, where officers face the unique challenges of remote life while fostering deep bonds with the Indigenous community. From patrolling rugged landscapes to thrilling drives along Quintell Beach in the police 4WD, every day brings new experiences and opportunities to make a lasting difference.
Mornington Island, North Queensland
Acting Senior Constable Mira Al-Tamimi joined the QPS four years ago and is currently stationed at Kowanyama Police Station in the Far North, however she and her camera have travelled to many locations and communities across Queensland.
"Sunsets on Thursday Island are always gorgeous and never the same," she said.
Townsville Dog Squad, North Queensland
Senior Constable Dave Forrest joined the Service in 2015 and currently serves in the Townsville Dog Squad alongside Police Dog Uzi, enjoying the fast-paced policing environment Townsville and North Queensland offer. He encourages people interested in policing careers to embrace the diverse opportunities for career development and location on offer, explore their interests early, and develop a plan to work towards that path.
"Go and see what policing outside Southeast Queensland has to offer. Seizing opportunities to see parts of Queensland that you wouldn't otherwise have the ability to visit and experiencing different policing challenges will only make you a better officer," Senior Constable Forrest advises.
The Queensland Police Service offers career opportunities as diverse as the landscape and lifestyle you can find yourself immersed in.
To learn more about where a career with the QPS can take you, visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au
A career within the Queensland Police Service is like no other. From protecting, responding, and investigating, to supporting, rescuing and learning – the sheer variety of roles make it both a challenging and rewarding career.
As a police officer, you can have one career that has endless possibilities. Now really is the best time to join.
Visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au to kickstart your policing career and make a positive impact in your community.
