Community safety boosted with 14 new corrections officers in Townsville

Queensland’s newest frontline safety workers will be celebrated alongside some of their most experienced colleagues at a Queensland Corrective Services’ ceremony today.

Some 14 new custodial correctional officers will be sworn into their frontline roles, while six officers will be recognised for their 130 years’ of service in keeping Townsville safe.

Local Member for Townsville, Les Walker MP joined Queensland Corrective Services Acting Commissioner Gary McCahon to congratulate the graduates who completed the Custodial Officer Entry Program to join the ranks of the best trained and best equipped corrective services agency in Australia.

Mr Walker said, “Queensland Corrective Services officers perform a vital, often unseen public service, working to protect the safety of all Queenslanders and are a crucial part of the criminal justice system.”

“These new correctional officers are embarking on a rewarding and diverse career where they have the chance to transform the lives of those in their care and custody every day, helping to prevent further offending.

“Our custodial corrections officers are the best trained and equipped in Australia and today’s graduates are ready to take on the many challenges of working in Queensland correctional centre,” Acting Commissioner McCahon said.

“Our new officers join us at a very busy time as we use the five principles of Corrections 2030 – safety, excellence, empowerment, respect and accountability to continue to strive for world class corrective services.”

The 14 graduating officers will be posted to the Townsville Correctional Complex, which comprises two high security and two low security facilities as well as a satellite work camp.

Six of Townsville’s most experienced officers were also presented with Long Service and Good Conduct medals by Acting Commissioner McCahon and General Manager of Townsville Correctional Complex, Chief Superintendent Louise Kneeshaw.