Fresh Faces On The Beat

New Constables Join Mackay And Whitsundays District

Five newly graduated constables have officially joined the Queensland Police Service in the Mackay and Whitsundays District, bringing fresh energy and a strong sense of commitment to the region’s frontline policing efforts.

The officers, who recently completed their training at the Queensland Police Academy, will now begin their first year of service under the guidance of experienced field training officers.

District Superintendent Dean Cavanagh said welcoming new officers into the fold is always a significant moment for the local policing team.

“It’s a really exciting opportunity when we get to welcome new police into our blue family,” he said.

“They bring new ideas, fresh perspectives, and enthusiasm to the role.”

For First Year Constable Trista Nelson, the posting represents both a career milestone and a return home. A former student of Mackay North State High School, Nelson grew up in Mackay before moving to Brisbane to pursue a criminology degree at Griffith University.

“I honestly thought I’d really like Brisbane,” she said.

“But after being there a while, I realised I missed Mackay… I missed the beaches, the people, and most of all the community.”

Now back in her hometown in a professional capacity, she’s eager to begin her service.

“I’ve been looking forward to this for a long time. I’m excited to start talking to people and seeing what’s going on in the community,” she said.

Nelson said her studies in criminology, which included a focus on domestic violence and mental health, gave her a strong foundation for entering the force.

Joining her is First Year Constable Clay Duncan, who made the decision to relocate from Brisbane to Mackay to begin his career in regional policing.

“I’m really excited to be here,” he said.

“For me, it’s about connecting with the community and making a difference.”

Duncan said his parents, who are both in the police force, played a key role in inspiring him to pursue a career in the field.

“That influence growing up helped shape my path. I’ve always known I wanted to help people,” he said.

While he’s still new to regional living, Duncan said the diverse experiences available in the Queensland Police Service are what attracted him to the role.

“There are so many different opportunities to explore, and I’m really looking forward to learning and growing over the next 12 months.”

The five new recruits, assigned to Mackay City, Northern Beaches, and Bowen stations, forged strong bonds during their time at the academy and will now embark on their 12-month First Year Constable program under close supervision.

“They’ve undertaken extensive theoretical and practical training,” said Superintendent Cavanagh.

“Now they’ll be mentored on the job, working directly with experienced officers in real-world situations.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, himself a former police officer, welcomed the new constables and praised the state government’s ongoing investment in police resources.

“We’re pleased to see new officers on the ground here in Mackay and Bowen,” he said.

“It’s great to see local talent like Trista return home to serve the community.”

As the new officers begin their careers, they bring with them not only the training and skills required to serve, but also a shared desire to build strong community connections and contribute meaningfully to the safety and wellbeing of the region.

The five new recruits, assigned to Mackay City, Northern Beaches, and Bowen stations, forged strong bonds during their time at the academy and will now embark on their 12-month First Year Constable program under close supervision. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

First Year Constable Trista Nelson

First Year Constable Clay Duncan

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