New police officer at Gunnedah

New probationary constable Max Lowe is the latest police officer posted to Gunnedah.

He was one of three new constables who started duties in the Oxley Police District this week.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said two of the new probationary constables would start their careers in Tamworth and one in Gunnedah.

“After eight months of foundational training including 16 weeks at the Goulburn Police Academy, our new probationary constables are ready to serve our communities in the Oxley Police District,” Mr Anderson said.

“Probationary constables play an important role in the police district, undertaking a wide range of jobs including responding to domestic issues, motor vehicle accidents, stealing offences and other incidents.

“Our newest probationary constables will be well supported by experienced officers within the district who will guide them as they begin their rewarding careers.

“It’s great that Constables Lowe, Durrant and McInnes all have ties to our region, meaning they’ll be serving the communities their families, friends and neighbours call home.

“Our region is growing, and I’ll keep pushing to ensure we get the police we need to match our growing population.”

Although it was unclear the exact numbers of police officers now stationed in Gunnedah, mayor Jamie Chaffey said more boots on the ground will be needed to fulfil long fought after commitments.

“[More officers] is good news but we’re still well short of what police numbers we would need for 24-hour policing,” he said.

The recruits will complete 12 months of on-the-job training while studying by distance through Charles Sturt University.