Summit Employment and Training, in conjunction with NSW Police, the NSW Department of Education and Communities (DEC) and TAFE Western NSW Institute, created a course aimed at furthering the skills of Indigenous employees in the workforce.

The Aboriginal Community Liaison Officers (ACLO) completed a Certificate IV in Police Aboriginal Community Services and celebrated their achievement with a special presentation at Warrina Hostel.

In the presence of Dubbo State MP Troy Grant and NSW Police assistant commissioner Geoff McKechnie, the graduates did their colleagues proud by increasing their knowledge of community services, which was incredibly relevant to their roles at the station.

Senior Sergeant Peter Spradbrow, together with Robert Riley, joined forces three years ago to get a course up and running for ACLO's.

"In the past, Aboriginal workers have never been able to tap into certain administrative and community values," Senior Sergeant Spradbrow said.

"It's a great experience for them and incredibly worthwhile because they're learning about literacy and numeracy... it's a credit to them that they receive their certificates."

He said this year's graduates took part in the pilot program, and would certainly look into bringing it back in the near future.

The ACLO's were from Dubbo, Bathurst, Lithgow, Parkes, Forbes and Sydney, with five graduates accepted in a Diploma of Management next year.

Dubbo MP Troy Grant offered his congratulations to NSW Police, adding their investment in staff was testament to its hard work.

"NSW Police have helped upskill the ACLO's and provide education and training to help them do their jobs better," he said.

"Their partnerships with organisations like the DEC and TAFE Western have resulted in great outcomes for all involved."

Robert Riley said the five graduates would embark on their year-long management course in Sydney next year.

anthony.cini@ruralpress.com