Course 85 motivated to make a difference

Ranging in age from 19 to 43, the 11 men and six women bring various life experience and education to policing, including from the defence force, education, retail, fitness, physiotherapy, and transport industries.

Members of Course 85 are also culturally and linguistically diverse, with one graduate born in Chile. These graduates will be stationed to metropolitan and regional postings, including the Riverland, Kadina, Whyalla, Port Augusta and Port Lincoln.

Sergio, 28, left his full-time Army career to join SAPOL, as he always wanted to be a police officer. He believes his experience as an Army Infantry Corporal will help him transition into police work and help the community.

“I believe the teamwork and problem solving I learned through the Army will aid me in my future experiences," Sergio said.

“I have always wanted to help people and be able to actively play a role in the community.”

Sergio enjoyed the course and values the relationships built at the academy. He encourages cadets to push through challenges and give it their all.

“It has been great having laughs with my course mates and knowing that we are able to study or practice things together to make sure that we can all get each other to the end.”

Before joining SAPOL, James, 26, was working in recruitment employing people for the mining industry. He believes his people skills will help him face the challenges in his new policing role.

“Working in recruitment gave me the communication skills to be understanding and compassionate, but also fair and stern,” James said.

“I always wanted to be a police officer as I liked the idea of every day being different.

“I also wanted to challenge myself physically and mentally and liked the idea of helping the community I grew up in and love.” Born and bred in Adelaide, James has his heart set on making an impact for the good of his community.

James encourages future candidates to apply right away.

“I would strongly suggest if you’re thinking about applying, just do it. Don’t hesitate and wait for the perfect timing.”

Georgia, 19, joined the academy straight out of high school in the Riverland, and is excited for the career opportunities that exist in local policing.

“I am extremely excited to work in my hometown and make a difference. I am also excited to be back home with my family and friends again,” Georgia said

“What attracted me to SAPOL was the wide range of career pathways available within the organisation.

“The variety of roles and opportunities for growth means I can continually develop my skills and take on new challenges throughout my career.”

Georgia reflected on her time at the academy well, remembering the significant personal growth that took place.

“Throughout the academy I was constantly put out of my comfort zone and now I just do it. I do it for experience and I do it because you never know what your day-to-day job could encounter out on the road,” she said.

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

Course 85 graduates Georgia (left), Sergio (centre), James (right)

Course 85 graduates Sergio (left), Georgia (centre), James (right)