The Northern Territory Police's newest officers from Squad 97 graduated today in a ceremony held at the Marrara Basketball Stadium from 11.00 am.

This ceremony marks the end of a 26 week course for the Squad which has embraced the need for female members.

Of the 24 graduates, eight are female and will take up duties across the Northern Territory in Alice Springs, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Darwin urban areas.

Joanna Darby, who received the Dux award for Squad 97, said that she was looking forward to becoming a sworn Police Officer and had enjoyed the dynamics of a gender equal squad.

"I am very keen on taking up my Police duties in Katherine and feel that our Squad has had one of the most enriching training courses due to the fact that there are eight women on the team, "said Ms Darby.

"Having such a large number of women helped reduce the perception that the Police Force is a male dominated organisation and it provides a better reflection of the Northern Territory community."

While six months may be considered a long training period Ms Darby stresses that the training has prepared the Squad well for their future endeavours but the learning experience is far from over.

"The training has helped build my confidence and has prepared us well for the Force but the training does not stop at the College. We will continue to learn and continue to take on training opportunities offered by the Northern Territory Police Force," she said.

Police Commissioner Paul White said the squad represented the standards expected of all Police Officers including honesty, integrity and dedication to serving the community.

"It's pleasing to see such a large squad of Territorians making the change to a career with the NT Police and particularly pleasing that so many of them are women.

"Congratulations to all graduates for choosing to serve and protect Territorians and I wish them all the best with the challenges ahead."

Award winners

Rod Evans Memorial Trophy - Joanna Darby

The Commissioners Trophy - Andrew Kren

Physical Training Trophy - Shannon Harvey

Glen Huitson Trophy - Nicholas Bencsevich


Media Contact:
Rebecca Forrest
Phone: 0414 693 977