Queensland Police Service Archives - Over The Walter Taylor Bridge

Olympian Kai Edwards Swaps the Starting Blocks for the Blue Line at Oxley

When Kai Edwards stood on the start line at the Tokyo 2020, he was preparing for a 10-kilometre test of endurance in open water.

Now, the Olympic marathon swimmer is preparing for a different kind of test — serving Queensland communities after graduating from the Queensland Police Service Academy in Oxley.

The Gold Coast athlete, who represented Australia in the Men’s 10km marathon swim in Tokyo, is among 123 new First Year Constables welcomed into the Queensland Police Service this week following the latest Brisbane Academy graduation.

For Oxley and surrounding suburbs covered by Over the Walter Taylor Bridge, the milestone carries a local connection. The Oxley-based academy continues to produce frontline officers who will now be deployed across the state — including key Brisbane districts.

From Olympic Waters to Community Service

Constable Edwards joined the Service after retiring from professional swimming, bringing with him the resilience, discipline and mental strength forged through elite sport.

“Being an athlete is both mentally and physically demanding, and it requires a high level of resilience, discipline and determination — qualities I believe will be so valuable in my role as a QPS officer,” Constable Edwards said.

After stepping away from competitive swimming, he became increasingly involved in community engagement, where interactions with officers influenced his next chapter.

“I saw how officers supported their communities, and I felt it would be a privilege to be a part of the QPS.”

His transition reflects a broader theme within the graduating cohort, which includes recruits from diverse professional backgrounds such as defence, education, childcare and international policing.

123 New Officers to the Frontline

In total, 123 new constables graduated from the Brisbane Academy, with deployments stretching from metropolitan Brisbane to regional Queensland.

Within Brisbane alone:

North Brisbane District will receive 14 new officers
South Brisbane District will receive 11 new officers

Those figures represent a significant reinforcement of frontline capability across the capital, supporting suburbs from Ferny Grove and Stafford in the north to Sherwood, West End and Upper Mount Gravatt in the south.

Acting Police Commissioner Brett Pointing APM told graduates that policing is more than employment.

“A career in policing is more than a job; it’s a calling to protect and make a meaningful difference in the lives of Queenslanders,” he said.

A Moment of Reflection

The ceremony also paused to honour the service and sacrifice of two officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The families of Senior Constable Brett Forte and Senior Constable David Masters were presented with Queensland Police Blue Heart Medals, recognising their ultimate sacrifice and commitment to protecting the community.

The minute of silence underscored the responsibility now carried by the newest recruits as they begin their careers.

The Oxley Academy’s Ongoing Role

For Oxley residents, the Academy remains a steady presence — quietly shaping the next generation of officers who will serve across Queensland’s cities, suburbs and remote communities.

Kai Edwards’ journey from Olympic waters to the parade ground is a reminder that elite performance and public service share common ground: discipline, resilience and commitment to something bigger than self.

From the marathon swim course in Tokyo to the streets of Queensland, the race has changed — but the purpose remains clear.

Published 3-Mar-2026

Oxley Memorial Puts Purple Poppy Day Focus on Service Animals

Photo Credit: QPS

On a normal day at the Oxley Police Academy, it would be easy to walk past the Animal Memorial without realising how much history sits in one place: a sandstone plinth and a bronze plaque showing a police dog and a police horse, set there to honour the animals that served alongside Queensland Police Service officers.

On 24 Feb, Queensland Police Service Media used Purple Poppy Day to draw attention back to that Oxley memorial and to the animals still working across Queensland — dogs trained to detect drugs, explosives and firearms, and horses that support crowd control, search operations and community engagement.

QPS described Purple Poppy Day as an annual tribute to war and service animals that have served alongside humans. In Queensland, the message lands with special weight at Oxley, where the memorial honours animals that have served the organisation over the years.

The agency said the Dog Squad includes more than 100 police dogs. Their work is practical and often unseen: detecting illegal substances and dangerous items, tracking offenders, and helping in search and rescue operations when time matters most.

QPS also highlighted the Mounted Police Unit, which it said has served Queensland for more than 150 years and is currently home to 12 police horses, supporting operations and building connections through community engagement.

Purple Poppy Day is also closely linked with War Animal Day, which focuses on remembering animals that served, suffered and died in conflict and service roles. These animals contributed in roles such as communication and transport during conflict, including horses, pigeons, camels and donkeys.

The memorial at Oxley is not tied to a single calendar moment. It is there to keep the memory of service animals in view, while the work of police dogs and horses continues across Queensland.

Published 26-Feb-2026

Eight New Police Dogs Graduate in Oxley, Enhancing Queensland’s Safety

Photo: Unsplash/Jason Jarrach

The State Dog Squad Training and Development Centre in Oxley has proudly graduated eight new police dogs, strengthening Queensland’s law enforcement capabilities. These canines are now ready to support frontline officers across the state.

In a significant enhancement to Queensland’s law enforcement capabilities, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) has proudly introduced eight newly trained police dogs. These canine officers have completed a rigorous 12-week training program.

Eight New Police Dogs Graduate in Oxley, Enhancing Queensland’s Safety — *Photo Credit: My Police Brisbane West*

The comprehensive training regimen at the Oxley facility is designed to prepare dogs for general-purpose duties, including tracking suspects, searching for evidence, and ensuring public safety. Upon completion, the dogs were ceremoniously fitted with official collars, symbolising their readiness to serve alongside their human counterparts.

The newly graduated dogs have been deployed to regions including Brisbane, Cairns, Townsville, Logan, and Ipswich, where they will assist with tasks such as tracking suspects, evidence searches, and public safety operations.

This event marked Queensland’s first stand-alone police dog graduation, underscoring the crucial role of the centre in preparing elite canine units. Equipped with modern amenities, the centre ensures both dogs and their handlers are trained to the highest standards.

The public has warmly welcomed the new canine recruits, with the QPS sharing updates and photos on social media to promote transparency and foster community support.

With the largest canine unit in Australia (111 dogs currently in service and 23 in training), the QPS demonstrates a steadfast commitment to utilising canine officers to support law enforcement efforts statewide.

Published 26-Dec-2024

Oxley-Trained Kaos: A Legacy of Service and Canine Camaraderie

Featured Image Attribution Photo Credit: Queensland Police Services

The Queensland Police Service is mourning the passing of retired Police Dog Kaos. The highly decorated canine officer, who received his initial training in Oxley, died peacefully at the age of 12 and will be forever remembered.

Kaos, a beloved member of the Brisbane Dog Squad, served alongside his handler, Senior Constable Jim Griffiths, from 2014 to 2021, leaving an indelible mark on the force and the community he protected.

A Decorated Career

*Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police Services*

Kaos’s dedication and bravery were recognised just last month when he was awarded the Canine Service Medal for his outstanding service and countless contributions to apprehending offenders.

One particularly harrowing incident occurred in February 2020 during an arrest in Gordon Park, where Kaos sustained a 12-centimetre stab wound to the chest. Despite this serious injury, Kaos made a remarkable recovery and courageously returned to duty a month later.

His courage also earned him the prestigious German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia (GSDCA) Outstanding Canine Service Award in 2021 – the highest honour bestowed upon a German Shepherd in the country.

A Gentle Giant in Retirement

Following his retirement in July 2021, Kaos enjoyed a well-deserved life of leisure with Senior Constable Griffiths and his family in Dayboro. Known for his fierce determination on the job, Kaos was a gentle soul off-duty.

He became a familiar face at the local cafe, basking in the sun and earning the affection of patrons. Additionally, he continued his heartwarming visits to the Queensland Children’s Hospital, bringing comfort and smiles to young patients.

A Heartfelt Farewell

Kaos’s unexpected passing on Saturday, 10 August, has left a void in the hearts of many. Senior Constable Griffiths remembers Kaos as a loyal partner and a cherished friend. “With honour he served, and it was an honour to serve with him,” Griffiths shared, reflecting on their unbreakable bond.

The Queensland Police Service extends its deepest condolences to Senior Constable Griffiths and his family. Kaos’s legacy of courage, loyalty, and unwavering service will forever be remembered.

Published Date 22-August-2024

Veteran Officers Start New Tenure as First Year Constables at QPS

Eleven seasoned international and interstate police officers have commenced their tenure with the Queensland Police Service as the state’s newest First Year Constables. Their induction follows the successful completion of the Police Abridged Competency Education program, a rigorous 17-week training initiative held at the prestigious QPS Oxley Academy.

This initiative caters specifically to applicants with frontline policing experience outside of the QPS within the past five years. Hailing from policing jurisdictions across the globe, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Victoria, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory, these officers contribute their experiences to the QPS.

Their collective expertise in frontline policing, coupled with relevant studies in law, investigation, and public safety, promises to enhance the effectiveness of the Service.

Training Ground at Oxley Academy

The Police Abridged Competency Education (PACE) program in Oxley offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills training. Geared towards augmenting the existing policing background of participants, it equips them with the necessary tools and expertise required for effective law enforcement.

To facilitate their transition into serving the Queensland community, successful graduates of the PACE program are offered a generous relocation incentive of $20,000. This financial aid helps with easing the officers’ integration into their new roles within the QPS.

Warm Welcome

Police Minister Mark Ryan extends a warm welcome to the 11 new officers, emphasising the value of their extensive policing experience in enriching the Service. He underscores the importance of investing in individuals and their skills to uphold the QPS’s commitment to community safety. Aspiring officers are encouraged to explore the diverse career pathways within the QPS and make a positive impact in their communities.

Assistant Commissioner Mark Kelly also extends heartfelt congratulations to the 11 new First Year Constables embarking on their policing careers with the QPS. He acknowledges the wealth of experience, core values, and skills they bring from their diverse policing backgrounds across Australia and overseas.

The newly inducted officers have been deployed to various regions across Queensland, ready to fulfil their commitment to ensuring community safety. From Mackay Northern Beaches to Cairns, Townsville to Brisbane City, they are strategically stationed to address diverse policing needs across the state.

A career within the Queensland Police Service offers a multitude of opportunities to make a meaningful difference. From protecting communities and responding to emergencies to investigating crimes and providing support, the possibilities are endless. Aspiring officers are urged to seize the opportunity to embark on a fulfilling journey in law enforcement by visiting PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au.

Published 15-Feb-2024

Queensland Police Launches Largest Ever Recruitment Campaign

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has launched its largest ever recruitment campaign in an effort to significantly boost the number of police recruited and trained at its academy in Oxley.

Read: To Build or Not to Build: The Debate Over a New Bridge from Chelmer to Indooroopilly

With $87.5 million in funding from the state government over five years, the campaign aims to support the force’s ambitious recruitment drive.

Months in the making, the marketing targets both new recruits and experienced officers nationally and abroad who may be interested in a policing career with QPS.

According to Police Minister Mark Ryan, the campaign showcases the diversity of roles available within the service to attract passionate applicants ready for the challenges and rewards.

“As a police officer, you can have one career that has endless possibilities,” Minister Ryan said.

The campaign reveals the dynamic range of environments across the state, from urban Brisbane to rural and remote towns. Queensland Police Union President Ian Leavers said their organisation’s research showed applicants want meaningful work with good pay and work-life balance.

“When we highlighted the fact first year Constables could take home a package of $100,000 in their first twelve months for a 38 hour week it proved highly attractive, something they would consider and try,” Mr Leavers said.

“The Premier, Police Minister and Treasurer listened to our advocacy and didn’t hesitate to fund our initiatives. I’m confident Queensland will be a first option employer for people wanting a career in policing,” he added.

Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the QPS wants to recruit people from all backgrounds who want to make a difference. She believes the campaign will generate significant interest in what is the largest recruitment drive in the organisation’s history.

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Incentives like no application fees, cost of living allowances, free accommodation, and up to $20,000 towards HECS or relocation continue to be offered.

Published 13-September-2023

Largest Batch of QPS Recruits Now Training at Oxley Academy

Queensland Police Service is now training its largest batch of recruits ever at the Oxley Academy. These 280 individuals will form part of the QPS’s goal to add 2,025 police personnel to its roster across the state.

The new recruits are expected to graduate from Oxley Academy in early 2022. Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said that she’s pleased to see so many recruits and she looks forward to more Queenslanders joining the service in the future.

“Policing offers an incredibly diverse range of opportunities, whether it be general duties policing, or the wide range of specialist units we have ranging from the dog squad and water police to forensics or the stock squad,” Ms Carroll said.

Recruiting and Constable Training Superintendent Josef Jaramazovic said that they are particularly looking for applicants driven by purpose and have a sense of direction and meaning in their chosen careers. He also said that the increase in recruits will ensure that QPS will meet the challenges and demands of police work.

Meanwhile, the Honourable Mark Ryan MP, the Minister for Police and Corrective Services and Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, said the latest round of recruits is an “investment in policing unrivalled by any government this century.”

“This is in keeping with the Queensland Government’s commitment to keep Queenslanders safe now, and well into the future. More than ever, Queenslanders have witnessed throughout the pandemic, the extraordinary commitment of police to keeping the community safe.

“Queenslanders are fortunate to have a police service that is so totally committed to serving the community.

“And what we have seen demonstrates how a career with the Queensland Police Service is synonymous with a life devoted to serving your fellow Queenslanders.”

Interested individuals who are thinking of joining QPS may try the QPS eligibility quiz.

New Mobile Police Beat Arrives in Oxley

Did you know that a new mobile police beat has rolled into Oxley to provide the community with more access to services like taking witness or victim statements, reports, and conducting field interviews?

The South Brisbane Mobile Police Beat, parked by the entrance of the Oxley Railway Station, will also be going around the community to provide more police presence. The set-up will allow the locals to comfortably talk to the authorities about their concerns for public safety and security, including issues on domestic and family violence.

Aside from Oxley, the service will also be visible around Corinda, Sherwood, Graceville, Rocklea, Chelmer, Tennyson and parts of Yeerongpilly, according to the Queensland Police Service (QPS).

“Mobile police beats are an agile solution to policing in the districts and we look forward to being able to provide a “station on wheels” to predetermined areas that we identify require a policing presence most,” Chief Superintendent Graham said.

It comes the QPS recently welcomed 96 new officers, who were inducted as First Year Constables (FYC) at the Oxley Academy. They are the first graduates of the distance-based study option and received their deployment orders to serve various precincts across Queensland. They have also been issued their QLiTE devices to issue banning notices on the spot.

As FYCs, the new officers will further undergo station-based training for 12 months to improve their abilities whilst immersed in actual police scenarios.

“These new FYCs are the future of policing in Queensland, and the training they have undertaken up to this point has prepared them for the variety of situations they will encounter throughout their policing careers,” Commissioner Katarina Carroll said.

“The ability to graduate with QLiTE devices will enable these officers to hit the ground running, being equipped with the tools are necessary to perform their new roles.

“We are always looking to deliver the latest technology available to our officers to give them the equipment required to provide a modern approach to crime prevention, community safety and all other aspects of police work.”