Women in our police force will be celebrating a special milestone next week – 100 years of women in policing.
Next Thursday, police officers from Penrith Local Area Command, politicians, and the local community will be taking a celebratory walk from Weir Reserve to Tench Reserve in Penrith.
Celebrations began with a NSW Police baton relay launched on International Women’s Day on March 8, now making its way around the state.
Sergeant Sally Cox from Penrith Police Station said being a police officer is a great job that allows women to play an influential role.
“It’s a secure job and every day there is something different,” Sgt Cox said.
“It’s extremely important to have women in the police force, especially once they have some life experience which is when they can be really valuable and a real asset to the team.”
Over one third of Penrith police officers are women, representing the change that has happened over the last 100 years.
In 1915 there was just two female officers who were employed as ‘special constables’.
Superintendent Brett McFadden from Penrith Police Station said women at the station are just as committed to the job as the men.
“We now have hundreds of committed and successful women working in diverse roles such as the dog unit, rescue squad, mounted unit and detectives,” Superintendent McFadden said.
“Today the NSW Police Force offers women extensive opportunities, interesting experiences and interaction with people from all walks of life, while the organisation is rewarded with the important skills and experience they bring to the job.”
The baton relay is expected to make its arrival in Penrith next Thursday, July 9 at Weir Reserve at 10.00am. There will be activities and displays on the day.
– Jade Aliprandi
