New correctional officers improve community safety in Capricornia
- Nine new Custodial Correctional Officers join the frontline of public safety
- Two officers recognised with Long Service & Good Conduct medals
- Officers equipped with highest level of training
- Queensland Corrective Services offers many career paths
Queensland Corrective Services inducted nine Custodial Correctional Officers (CCO) to the frontline of public safety on Friday 5 May working to reduce reoffending to keep Rockhampton safe.
Joined by family and friends, the new officers were recognised for their achievement after completing a paid 10-week Custodial Officer Entry Program.
All nine graduates will be posted to Capricornia Correctional Centre.
The ceremony also recognised two officers with the Long Service and Good Conduct medals for their 10 years of service to QCS.
There are many career paths the top tier public safety agency offers including CCOs, trade instructors, dog squad officers, psychologists, counsellors, cultural liaison officers and administrative roles, all of which play a vital role in managing and rehabilitating prisoners to keep communities safe.
Representing the Minister for Police and Corrective Services, and the Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mr Mark Ryan MP, the Member for Rockhampton Mr Barry O’Rourke MP attended the ceremony to congratulate the new graduates.
Quotes attributable to Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke:
“Congratulations to our new graduates and experienced officers for upholding public safety and ensuring prisoners and offenders are less likely to return to crime.
“Queensland Corrective Services is an essential part of our criminal justice system, delivering innovative, effective, evidence-based correctional services, which contribute to a safer Queensland.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga:
“There are people in the community who are unaware of the critical work undertaken by Corrections staff.
“The reality is Custodial Corrections Officers are on the front line supporting community safety on a daily basis.
“I commend today’s graduates and award winners for their commitment to their fellow Queenslanders.”
Quotes attributable to Joel Smith, Assistant Commissioner, Southern Region Command, QCS:
“Congratulations to all our correctional officers today for their commitment and service to frontline public safety.
“Our officers and are equipped with the highest level of training, skills and support to enable them to perform their roles safely and effectively.”
Quotes attributable to Chief Superintendent Richard Butcher, General Manager, Capricornia Correctional Centre, QCS:
“We are incredibly proud of each and every one of our officers for the difference they make in our community and their dedication and commitment to their role in keeping the public safe.
“Every interaction they have is an opportunity to address offending behaviour and to improve the vocational and life skills of prisoners, assisting in their rehabilitation and reintegration back into the community.”
Further information:
- For more information about Queensland Corrective Services and to find out how to join the front line public safety agency head to: Careers | Queensland Corrective Services (corrections.qld.gov.au).
- The total remuneration package for a QCS Custodial Correctional Officer ranges from $81,645 to $117,152 which includes base salary plus allowances and employer superannuation contributions. CCOs work a compressed three-day week,
- Eligible candidates who relocate from interstate or South East Queensland to Capricornia, Townsville or Lotus Glen Correctional Centres may also be eligible for a relocation assistance package up to the value of $7,000.