The Queensland Police Service (QPS) rolled out the blue carpet for career seekers on Saturday May 31, hosting the highly anticipated Community Safety and Careers Expo at the Toowoomba TAFE oval.
Community members from Toowoomba and surrounding regions turned out to gain insight into careers in policing and emergency services, while also learning about proactive safety measures.
From adrenaline-pumping tactical demonstrations to one-on-one conversations with serving officers and current recruits, the expo gave attendees an authentic look behind the badge.
Specialist units - including the Tactical Crime Squad, Water Police, Public Safety Response Team, Highway Patrol and Mounted Unit - gave action-packed insights into their roles. Current recruits shared personal stories from the QPS Academy and provided tips on navigating the application process.
Informative seminars were held throughout the morning, including police recruit information sessions and community safety presentations led by District Crime Prevention Coordinators. These sessions focused on improving safety at home and within the community.
The event also featured displays and personnel from the State Emergency Service (SES) and Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), reflecting the strong partnerships between Queensland's emergency services and their shared commitment to public safety.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Shane Chelepy APM, said the event was a powerful platform to inspire the next generation of police officers and emergency services workers.
"Events like this show the strong relationship between police and the people we serve," Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
"Whether you're interested in protecting Queensland's waterways, hitting the highway with our road policing units, or making an impact through crime prevention and community engagement - today is all about igniting a passion for service.
"Events like this highlight the diversity and depth of what a career in policing and emergency services can offer, and the community spirit that drives it."
Acting Commissioner Chelepy also thanked the officers, recruits, volunteers and emergency service partners who made the Toowoomba expo such a success.
"Your commitment to safety, education, and community connection is what defines the Queensland Police Service," Acting Commissioner Chelepy said.
A career within the Queensland Police Service is like no other. From protecting, responding, and investigating, to supporting, rescuing and learning – the sheer variety of roles make it both a challenging and rewarding career.
As a police officer, you can have one career that has endless possibilities. Now really is the best time to join.
Visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au to kickstart your policing career and make a positive impact in your community.
