As a three-year-old, Constable Zac Richters-Nielsen dreamt of being a police officer, helping others and proudly wearing a uniform.
Today, that childhood dream has become true as he now is policing in the beautiful Whitsundays, calling the destination home.
Born in Brisbane, Constable Richters-Nielsen graduated from the Oxley Police Academy in 2024 and selected Airlie Beach as his preferred deployment location
Constable Richters-Nielsen was eager to experience new parts of Queensland and find a location that would offer unique working opportunities and the chance to live somewhere truly extraordinary.
Day-to-day duties vary for Constable Richters-Nielsen, from patrolling the local strip of bars and bistros to working with Water Police out on the Great Barrier Reef upskilling in different units.
Constable Richters-Nielsen has reflected on his growth since being stationed in the Whitsundays and says the opportunity to work with Water Police has shown him a new passion and potential career trajectory.
"This job is so diverse, every day is different and could see me working on one of the beautiful islands along the reef, or out in the suburbs" Constable Richters-Nielsen said.
"I love the freedom and flexibility of being able to get out within the community, not being sat behind a desk for eight hours a day".
"Living and working in a remote holiday location has given me experiences that you really can't get with a job in the city."
"Being a Queensland Police officer is exciting, rewarding and challenging in the best possible way, it offers unique opportunities and anyone considering it as a career should definitely do it and come join us on the reef."
Constable Richters-Nielsen story is included in a series the QPS has launched as part of its largest recruitment drive in history, highlighting the diverse and rewarding career opportunities available across Queensland.
The series taps into the breathtaking landscapes of Queensland, from picturesque beaches to the iconic red dirt, and captures the unique environments officers patrol and the variety of experiences that come with the job.
Assistant Commissioner Kevin Guteridge from People Capability Command said the campaign is designed to highlight the strong incentives and community-focused work of officers in diverse regions of Queensland.
"Our officers are part of the fabric of their local communities, and this campaign is about celebrating the vital work they do," Assistant Commissioner Guteridge said.
"From our North Coast to regional Queensland and beyond, we want to show the incredible impact officers have and encourage more people to join the Service."
"The campaign is supported by innovative recruitment initiatives designed to attract applicants from all walks of life, showcasing the lives and roles of officers across the state.
"There's no one-size-fits-all for being a police officer. Whether you're a local looking to serve your community or someone seeking a career change, policing offers a challenging and rewarding career."
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.
