BRISBANE, Queensland, Dec. 19 -- Queensland Police Service issued the following media release:

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) proudly celebrates the addition of 39 experienced officers to its ranks following their successful completion of the rigorous Police Accelerated Competency Education (PACE) program.

The graduates bring extensive policing expertise from interstate and international jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, South Africa, Western Australia, and Victoria.

After completing an intensive 20-week training program, the new constables are now ready to be deployed to frontline roles across Queensland.

With backgrounds in investigations, child protection, domestic and family violence, and sexual offences, their wealth of experience and dedication will further enhance the QPS's ability to protect and serve communities, reinforcing its unwavering commitment to community safety and security.

In a testament to the success of the Police Accelerated Competency Education (PACE) program, the Queensland Police Service has proudly sworn in 358 experienced recruits over the past two years, with 157 in 2024 and an impressive 201 recruits already joining the ranks in 2025.

Acting Commissioner of Police, Cheryl Scanlon, congratulated the graduates, highlighting their diverse backgrounds and the unique skills they bring to the Service.

"These officers are a testament to the QPS's dedication to attracting experienced and skilled individuals from across the globe," Acting Commissioner Scanlon said.

"Their expertise and fresh perspectives will undoubtedly enhance our ability to meet the needs of Queensland's growing and diverse communities."

Among the graduates is Constable Kere Taurere, who served as a Detective with the New Zealand Police in South Auckland for 11 years. Constable Taurere was drawn to Queensland by the opportunity to enjoy a better lifestyle with his family.

"Family was the biggest motivator, but I was also looking for a change of pace and a better everyday lifestyle," Constable Taurere said. "I'm looking forward to getting on the road, learning the lay of the land, and exploring Queensland on my days off. The size of Queensland is something I'll need to adjust to, but I'm excited to bring my investigative skillset to the QPS and contribute to the community."

Another graduate, Constable Petrus Viljoen, brings 25 years of experience as a Warrant Officer with the South African Police Service. Constable Viljoen was inspired to join the QPS after visiting Queensland in 2024 and falling in love with its sense of community, natural beauty, and opportunities for his family.

"I was drawn to Queensland by the strong sense of community and belonging," Constable Viljoen said. "This is a place I want my kids to grow up in. The QPS has exceeded my expectations with its support and opportunities, and I'm excited to take my policing career to the next level. I'm particularly looking forward to using my experience in family violence and child protection to make a positive difference in the lives of young people."

Constable Viljoen will be stationed at Edmonton in the Far North Region, where he is eager to become part of the local community and contribute to its safety and wellbeing.

Dylan Holland, a former Constable with the New Zealand Police in Hamilton, has joined the Queensland Police Service, inspired by the lifestyle and opportunities Queensland offers for his young family.

"I'm looking forward to hitting the streets running, getting back to doing what I love, and adapting to the fast-moving environments while serving the Crestmead community."

The QPS remains committed to attracting and retaining skilled officers from diverse backgrounds, ensuring the Service is well-equipped to meet the needs of Queensland's growing and dynamic population.

This intake will be deployed throughout Queensland in the following stations:

RegionDistrictStationTotalBrisbane (17)North Brisbane (8)Boondall1Carseldine1Hendra2Indooroopilly1Sandgate1Stafford2South Brisbane (9)Calamvale1Carina1Dutton Park2Inala1Mt Ommaney1Redland Bay1Upper Mount Gravatt1West End1Central Region (3)Capricornia (3)Gladstone1North Rockhampton1Rockhampton1Far Northern (2)Far North (2)Edmonton1Innisfail1North Coast (4)Moreton (4)Bribie Island1Caboolture1Deception bay1Mango Hill1Northern (5)Townsville (5)Kirwan2Mundingburra1Townsville2South Eastern (8)Logan (8)Beenleigh2Crestmead2Logan Central2Loganholme1Springwood1

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