As the Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer for Barwon police, Willie is a people person.

And it’s a role he’s made a career out of in Western Region with the force.

For 21 years, he’s been working with indigenous communities west of the Great Dividing Range for NSW police.

Originally from the Bourke area, Willie is one of the Barkindji people.

He’s worked as an Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer (ACLO) in both Burke and Dubbo, and then took up his latest posting in Moree, where he was transferred in 2014.

His Barwon colleagues said Willie made his mark on the community very quickly, especially in Boggabilla.

A familiar face, he worked closely with officers to engage some of the youth, especially in the introduction of the early morning Healthy Lifestyle Breakfast Program.

“Willie has always had a passion for helping young people achieve their full potential and live rewarding, purposeful lives,” his colleagues said.

Western Region Commander and Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie was on hand to say goodbye at an official farwell in Moree.

“Willie Middleton has served the communities of the Western Region well,” he said. 

“Whilst we hate to see officers such as Willie leave us, we’ve had 21 great years of service from him, helping us keep balance between police and communities and encouraging the youth of these communities to strive for the best.”

“It has been a pleasure working with you and we wish you all the best.

“The legacy of your work with the New South Wales Police Force will be remembered for many years.”

Perhaps one of his biggest achievements was the introduction of the first bicycle patrols for ACLOs.

The idea was born after a visit to the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

“After getting approval, designing the uniform and organising bike training, they were launched at the same festival in 2012,” his Barwon colleagues said. 

And, it was an idea that spread, with the higher heads of the force backing the plan.