Five new police have joined the Orana-Mid Western Police District, and begun patrolling the streets of Dubbo and surrounds.
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Probationary constables Luke Dewberry, Megan Roberts, Catherine Ryan, Joey Jamieson and Harry Conn had their first day on the force on Monday after graduating from the NSW Police academy in Goulburn last week.
Four of the probationary constables will be based at the Dubbo Police Station, while one will begin duties at Gilgandra.
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NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said the new recruits were joining at a unique time in the state's history.
"2021 has been another challenging year for NSW, with police taking on an unprecedented role in protecting the community from COVID-19," he said.
"With our role in pandemic response winding down as the state progresses along the road to recovery, I want to encourage our newest recruits to remember what's at the heart of everything we do as police officers - community safety."
Dubbo MP Dugald Saunders also welcomed the probationary constables to the region as they begin their policing career.
"Being a police officer is a challenging job at the best of times - but never have police played a bigger role in protecting and serving our communities than during our COVID-19 outbreak," he said.
"Local police have been instrumental in helping those suffering with COVID to isolate with wellbeing checks and deliveries, as well as the vaccine rollout in partnership with health and the Australian Defence Force."
The probationary constables will undertake a year of on-the-job training and complete the Associate Degree in Policing Practice by distance education with Charles Sturt University, before being confirmed to the rank of constable.
The new recruits are part of the graduating class of 218 probationary constables that have joined the ranks of the NSW Police Force. The group included 163 men and 55 women.
Education and Training Commander, Assistant Commissioner Dean Smith said the new recruits had been presented with unique challenges throughout their training due to COVID-19, but had shown resilience to reach this moment.
"The 218 students were first required to study at home for a lengthy period, and once on site, were placed in lockdown at the academy - unable to take weekend leave to see their families until two weeks ago," he said.
"I congratulate them for the strength and dedication they have shown - it sets them up well for long and distinguished careers."