CRIME coordinator from the Hunter Valley LAC Sergeant Libby Simos says being a part of events like the Singleton leg of the 100 years of women in policing relay is one of the more enjoyable aspects of her job.
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The state-wide relay came to town on Wednesday with about 15 local officers plus the Mounted Police carrying the baton from Townhead Park to Civic Green to mark this memorable occasion.
Themed Celebrating Compassion, Courage and Strength, it marks a huge journey over the past 100 years, which began with only two female officers, Lillian Armfield and Maude Rhodes, who were employed as “special constables” and chosen from 400 candidates in 1915.
Today, NSW boasts 4542 female sworn officers and 2581 female unsworn officers, and a lifetime of achievements in Local Area Commands and specialist units.
“It’s great to get out into the community and meet people, especially young children so they feel comfortable and safe around us,” Sergeant Simos says.
“After all that is why we are here for the community.”
She has been in the NSW Police Force for 18 years and says the diverse roles on offer make it an appealing option for both men and women.
However, it is also a career where women are afforded the same opportunities as their male counterparts.
“We get equal pay and promotions are given upon merit,” she says.
“It also offers flexibility if you have a family.”
Youth liaison officer Sheree Gray agrees but says this has not always been the case.
“We have come a long way even since I joined, and days like this are important to acknowledge woman have an important role the police force.
“We are no longer here to just perform administrative roles or to educate; we can be detectives, a member of the rescue squad or can even join the Mounties.”
The importance of the day was marked by the presence of their “boss” Superintendent Craig Jackson, who at the start of the relay was cautious when it came to approaching the Mounties fine steeds.
He eventually gave them a pat, only after following the lead of a brave young onlooker.
“We now have hundreds of committed and successful women working in diverse roles such as the dog unit, rescue squad, mounted unit and detectives,” he says.
“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.”
