Their presence will hopefully bring some relief to the significantly understaffed force, according to Orana commander superintendent Stan Single, who said the region has been struggling for months with increased workloads and unresolved shortages.

“The Orana Command was lucky enough to receive three new constables, which I think is more than any other command in the state,” Superintendent Single said.

Nonetheless, the command still has 12 full-time gaps to fill and up to 20 if you take into account maternity leave, injuries and sick leave, he said.

Superintendent Single said one of the issues for the police force statewide is trying to attract people from urban areas to the country.

From the new graduates, two have lived in Dubbo for a while - Kelvin Kilsby and Michael Barton - while James Patrick has relocated from Sydney.

Constable Patrick said he’s enjoying the “different lifestyle” country NSW offers.

“Everyone has been very welcoming and my experience of Dubbo has been great so far,” he said. When asked why they chose to join the police force, the recruits’ answers ranged from job security to career development opportunities.

“The chance to reduce crime rates is always a factor,” Constable Kilsby said.

“Also the opportunity to help out your local community.”

Constable Patrick wanted a career free from boredom and monotony.

“I like knowing every day will be different,” he said.

Before starting in Dubbo, the three recruits completed a rigourous training course at Goulburn Police Academy.

They will complete a series of one-the-job training initiatives this year before becoming fully-fledged officers in 12 months time.

For more information about a career with the NSW police force, visit http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment/nsw_police_academy.