“All I want for Christmas is Blue” Course 86 graduates join SAPOL

Ranging in age from 18 to 38, the 15 men and nine women bring diverse life experience to policing, with professional backgrounds in hospitality, nursing, construction, finance, protective services and more.

Members of Course 86 are culturally and linguistically diverse, with graduates from Maltese, Fijian, Ukrainian, Cambodian, Bosnian, Mongolian and Afghani backgrounds. The cohort also includes members who relocated from interstate to join SAPOL. One graduate, initially from New Zealand, gained her Australian Citizenship while at the academy.

These graduates will be stationed to metropolitan and regional postings, including the Riverland and Murraylands, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Mount Gambier, Barossa, and Hills Fleurieu.

As part of their out-phase placements, cadets gained firsthand experience in frontline policing. In Port Lincoln, two members attended a house fire that later became the focus of a major South Australian homicide investigation. Others were involved in a statewide Crime Service operation. These experiences are a powerful reminder of the impact police have and how academy training equips cadets for meaningful work on the frontline.

Before joining SAPOL, Ela, 29, spent seven years teaching English as a Second Language in Asia, followed by a management role in hospitality and nearly two years as a Correctional Officer. She believes these experiences gave her resilience and the ability to handle diverse, high‑stress environments, skills she will carry into her policing career.

“I wanted to make a positive influence in the community I live in and help people when they need it the most,” Ela said.

“I also had very positive interactions with SAPOL officers prior to applying, which inspired me to take the leap.”

Ela said fitness training was initially her biggest challenge but one she worked hard to overcome. Now posted to Eastern District, she is eager to begin her career.

Rohullah, 29, is a former Army serviceman and dedicated athlete, who represented South Australia in Defence volleyball and twice played for the National ADF team.

He credits discipline, teamwork and resilience as key strengths for his transition to policing.

“I’ve always admired policing as a profession that embodies courage and service, protecting the community and standing up for others,” Rohullah said.

At the academy, he found the supportive environment refreshing compared to military life, with driver training and firearms practice among his standout memories. He hopes to one day work in Major Crime or the Security Response.

“My advice to anyone thinking about applying is to go for it. The academy provides incredible support – If you ever struggle, there’s always someone willing to help.”

Brooke, 30, worked as a Police Security Officer for nearly two years. She found the knowledge and experience gained in that role, particularly around legislation and firearms, to be invaluable during her transition to policing.

Growing up in Robe, she is excited to return to the Limestone Coast to begin her career in Mount Gambier.

“I wanted a job where every day is different and unknown. I love working within a team environment, and I wanted a job where there are different pathways,” Brooke said.

“I learnt how important communication is, towards members of the public, suspects and team members.”

She found fitness training both the most challenging and rewarding part of the academy, while driver training and firearms week were highlights. Brooke says camaraderie within the course was essential.

“Everyone is going through the same stress and anxiety, so leaning on each other for support was really helpful.”

“The academy is such a rewarding and challenging experience, and the time goes so quickly.”

Want more from your life? Want to make an impact in your community? 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 www.police.sa.gov.au/join-us/achievemore