Sunshine Coast Bids Farewell to Water Police Sgt. Bates

Sergeant Kyle Bates has been piped out as Officer in Charge of Sunshine Coast Water Police, marking the end of four decades of service with the Queensland Police Service (QPS).

After beginning his career in the Brisbane Bayside area, Sergeant Bates joined the Sunshine Coast Water Police as the Officer In Charge at its inception in 1995.

He says he didn't know much about Water Police when he was offered the opportunity, but he's thankful it's where he ultimately spent the majority of his career.

"I was the search and rescue coordinator for the Sunshine Coast, so I was fairly extensively involved in many high-profile searches in the area, including the search for Daniel Morcombe."

Sergeant Bates said it's hard to pinpoint career milestones, but the camaraderie and mateship among his colleagues are the highlight of his time with QPS.

"The ranks disappear and the friendships you form in this job stick around, that's what I'll take away from my time with QPS," he said.

"Especially in the Water Police, these are people that have got your back when you're out doing the jobs that are a bit tough."

As to what he's most looking forward to in retirement, Sergeant Bates said he can't wait to kick his feet up.

"It's going to be a whole new world not keeping an ear out for the phone in the middle of the night," he said.

"I'm excited to spend more time with my family, especially my grandkids."

At his piping out ceremony today, Sergeant Bates was also awarded an Exemplary Conduct Medal with an Officer in Charge Clasp.