The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is honoured to announce the retirement of Senior Sergeant Robyn Hanly, after 42 years and 9 months of devoted service, Queensland Police say.
With the announcement of her retirement, Senior Sergeant Hanly claims the esteemed title as the longest serving woman in QPS history, an astounding career feat that is unlikely to be surpassed in the near future.
Senior Sergeant Hanly celebrated her retirement over the weekend, where her service was recognised by the attendance of Commissioner Ian Stewart, Police Minister Bill Byrne, Deputy Commissioner Steve Gollschewski, as well as colleagues, friends and family.
Commissioner Stewart commended Senior Sergeant Hanly on her accolade, declaring her an inspirational role model for both sworn officers and the wider community.
"I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to Senior Sergeant Hanly for her contribution to the Queensland Police Service, and her service to the people of this state," Commissioner Stewart said.
"The wisdom she has imparted, and the pride she has displayed in mentoring and supporting women in the QPS has had immeasurable effects on the belief and motivation for many young officer’s ensuing careers.
"Senior Sergeant Hanly is not only respected as the longest serving female officer, but as a QPS officer who displayed professionalism and determination whilst giving an enormous contribution to the regions of Central Queensland.
"On behalf of all members of the Queensland Police Service, I extend to Senior Sergeant Hanly my best wishes for the future."
Commissioner Stewart presents Senior Sergeant Hanly with her Certificate of Service
Senior Sergeant Hanly commenced duty at the Oxley academy as a cadet in early February 1974 and was inducted into the Queensland Police Service on November 14, 1975. She served in numerous locations, including stints at Brisbane, Kingaroy, Biloela, Gladstone and Charleville, before relocating to Central Queensland in 2001 where she retires as the Central Regional Operations Officer.
At the start of her career Senior Sergeant Hanly frequently served in locations where she was the sole woman officer, pioneering in a challenging period for sworn female police.
Hanly was quoted as saying that she joined the police because she thought she could make a difference.
"I don’t think I have achieved great things but I have, over the years, done small things that have made a difference," Senior Sergeant Hanly said.
Senior Sergeant Hanly surrounded by her family
