In three weeks’ time, a custom-made NSW Police baton will arrive in the city having made its way around the state as part of a six-month relay journey.

The relay, part of what is known as Operation Baltimore, left the Sydney Opera House on March 8, to coincide with International Women’s Day.

Dubbo residents are among those who have been invited to gather at the rotunda on Macquarie Street on May 20, where representatives from the NSW Police Force will complete a relay across town to mark the occasion, joined by retired police officers, mounted police and the dog squad.

Preparation for those local celebrations spearheaded by Orana Local Area Command Inspector Gemini Bakos and NSW Police staff member Kylie McKeown began months ago. 

The relay would start at the entrance of Taronga Western Plains Zoo, travel along Tracker Riley Cycleway, Talbragar and Brisbane streets, pass the Dubbo Police Station and then proceed along Church Street where it will finish at the rotunda for local celebrations.

Today NSW boasts 4542 female sworn officers and 2581 female unsworn officers.

Orana Local Area Command Superintendent David Simmons said the local celebrations would showcase past and present achievements of women in the Force.

“We now have hundreds of committed and successful women working in diverse roles such as the dog unit, rescue squad, mounted unit and detectives,” he said.

“Today the NSW Police Force offers women extensive opportunities, interesting experiences and interaction with people from all walks of life, while the organisation is rewarded with the important skills and experience they bring to the job.

“I am honoured to be part of the statewide celebrations and encourage all members of the community to come and help us mark this special moment in Australian history.”