Warwick Police Station Boosts Darling Downs Policing

After extensive restorations and a major expansion, the historic Warwick Police Facility has officially reopened, unveiling new state-of-the-art facilities designed to strengthen local policing operations and frontline services.

Originally built in 1900, the Warwick police station has been meticulously restored to its former heritage glory, while also incorporating a modern two-storey extension.

The additional features include office space, a conference room for major incidents and disaster management, a new laboratory and a forensic vehicle examination bay.

Blending new design with historic architecture, the Fitzroy Street station's $21 million renovation serves as an example of how the Queensland Police Service (QPS) is supporting frontline policing and bolstering community safety by ensuring officers are equipped with the resources they need.

Five police officers outside plaque for re-opening building at Warwick
L to R: Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly, Police and Emergency Services Minister Daniel Purdie, Warwick Patrol Inspector Kelly Hanlen, District Officer Superintendent Douglas McDonald and Assistant Commissioner Matthew Vanderbyl

Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly said the renovations, which began in 2024, would boost regional policing capabilities for the area's 60 policing personnel, including 32 general duty officers and several specialist units.

"The challenges faced in regional policing are complex and ever evolving," said Deputy Commissioner Kelly.

"By investing in modern and state-of-the-art facilities and providing our officers with the tools and resourcing they need, we are in turn investing in the region's future and the community's security and safety.

"The opening of the new upgraded police station has highlighted the QPS's focus on providing cutting-edge and well-resourced infrastructure to allow our officers to meet the unique needs and demands of regional communities."

Also included in the site's upgrades were modifications of the watchhouse, a new large office space for general duties officers, a new reception area, a wellness area, a forecourt and provision for 13 carparking bays.

Warwick Patrol Inspector Kelly Hanlen commended the extension and restoration of the sandstone building, highlighting the thoughtful internal refurbishments that ensure the iconic structure remains fit for purpose while supporting intensive policing operations.

"Police perform an essential job in keeping our local community safe, and a well-resourced and functional police station is vital to address our region's evolving needs as well as to boost public confidence in our policing efforts,'' Inspector Hanlen said.

Warwick Police restored sandstone building
Restored Warwick Police Station
Group of 24 officers in 1934
Group of 24 Warwick Police Officers in 1934
Warwick Station, dated 1920
Warwick Police Station, c 1920

As part of the station's reopening ceremony, 12 officers were presented with medals in recognition of their dedication, courage and significant years of service.

Among the medals presented was the Queensland Police Bravery Medal, awarded to Senior Constable Jeremy Lambert for displaying exceptional bravery, tactical awareness, calmness and leadership during an armed siege at Freestone in 2016.

"Senior Constable Lambert's actions reflect the highest standards of courage and professionalism. His bravery, leadership and dedication to protecting both the community and his fellow officers under extreme threat makes him a highly deserving recipient of the Queensland Police Bravery Medal,'' Inspector Hanlen said.

"These awards acknowledge the commitment shown by the recipients to their duties and I thank them for their work including in servicing the greater community.''

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