Have you ever wanted to serve and protect?
Victoria Police is on the hunt for new recruits to join the force, following the state government’s announcement of funding for 2729 new officers in December last year.
First Constable Natalee Ryan, stationed at Wyndham North Police station, decided to take that step three years ago and has never looked back.
“I wanted a career that was different every day, that also gave me the opportunity to help the community,” she said. “I know it’s cliché, but I just wanted to help people out.”
After finishing high school, First Constable Ryan was unsure about what her future held, but joining the police was always in the back of her mind. She applied when she was aged 20.
“The process was long, but it was still exciting and well worth it in the end,” she said. “The highlight of being a police officer is helping people when they need help.”
She also delights in the police force’s camaraderie.
“We have become like a family and the work is still fun,” she said.
“Don’t get me wrong – you see some horrible things, but the best part is you’ve got that support network of friends and family to get you through.”
Senior Sergeant Melissa Sullivan, also of Wyndham North, said there were so many different roles in Victoria Police that it took many different kinds of people to do them all.
“The key things, though, are communication skills, patience and community mindedness, as well as common sense,” she said. “Those are the kinds of qualities needed.”
For more information about joining Victoria Police, go to www.policecareer.vic.gov.au/police.
