The four probationary constables signed on this week to Oxley police and will be based in Tamworth as they earn their stripes over the next 12 months.

David, 32, left the army where he was a mechanic to wear the blue uniform and said the career change was a chance “to try something different”.

This weekend he’ll work the truck, paired with two other officers as they patrol Tamworth and respond to call outs.

Rowan from the Central Coast had 15 years in hospitality before signing on to become a policeman, and eventually making the tree change to Tamworth. 

“I knew the time was right so I thought I’d just jump right in,” he said.

For Bo, it’s a return home to where he grew up. This time he won’t be behind the desk for business banking, rather the 25-year-old will be on the frontline.

“I wanted something more challenging and not sit in the office all day,” he said. 

“I love the outdoors and I just wanted to give something back to help the community.”

Fellow Probationary Constable Joseph is no stranger to the area either, having called Armidale home while he studied at university.

“Having worked in an office, I wanted to do something that was unpredictable and get out and get the adrenaline pumping,” he said.

Acting Oxley Superintendent Jeff Budd said the four will be paired with experienced officers as they learn life on the beat in Tamworth and complete their studies.

“Policing is a challenging but also rewarding experience and this is four extra sets of boots we have on the ground to help police the streets,” he said.