What’s happening?
One hundred and ten new police officers have graduated from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Academy and are now beginning their first year of service. The graduates, known as First Year Constables (FYCs), will be deployed across Queensland, including eight to the Capricornia District. Rockhampton will welcome six of them, with two others beginning their duties in Gladstone.
Why it matters
The new constables bring skills from diverse backgrounds, ranging from defence and professional sport to criminology, engineering and health. Acting Commissioner Shane Chelepy APM said their experiences will strengthen QPS and benefit local communities
“Our new officers come from a wide range of backgrounds, and each brings unique experiences that will strengthen our Service and enhance the way we support the community,” Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
He added that policing is both challenging and rewarding, and that the new officers will quickly discover the positive impact they can make in people’s lives.
Local impact
Rockhampton residents will see six of the newest constables on their streets. Among them is Constable Hannah Bridgeman, who previously worked as a QPS administration officer before deciding to pursue frontline policing. “I loved my job with the QPS but felt I had more to give and could make a more direct impact in the community,” she said.
“The QPS provides endless career opportunities and progression, and I’m excited to start in General Duties and explore the possibilities available to me in the future.”
By the numbers
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110 new police officers graduated this week.
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8 constables are heading to Capricornia, including 6 in Rockhampton.
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More than 670 recruits are currently in training at QPS Academies.
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Over 1,540 applicants are in the recruitment pipeline.
Zoom in
Constables like Hannah Bridgeman highlight the strong local connections within this intake. Returning to serve the community that inspired her, she brings valuable insight and dedication to Rockhampton policing.
Zoom ou
This intake of FYCs will be stationed across all regions of Queensland, from major Brisbane suburbs to regional centres like Townsville and Mt Isa. It reflects QPS’s ongoing effort to maintain strong community ties while meeting the state’s growing policing needs.
What to look for next
Rockhampton residents will soon meet their new constables on patrol as they begin duties in General Policing. Their focus will be on building trust, supporting communities, and strengthening safety across Capricornia.
