THREE police officers, fresh from the academy, have returned to their roots and reported for their first shift as part of the New England Police District.
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Although the trio is new to the police force, they are all familiar with the region.
Of the probationary constables, Paige Berthold is from Tamworth, John Gilbody was working in Armidale before heading to the academy, and Jack Butler is a familiar face around his home town of Inverell.
Officer in charge at Inverell station, Chief Inspector Rowan O'Brien, said it's always "refreshing" to welcome new people and new perspectives to the team.
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"Their excitement is contagious and invigorates the local staff that will be involved in their training," he said.
"An added bonus of this group is they are all from regional areas.
This means they will already have a fair handle on what it is like to be part of a community and the importance of being professional and building relationships."
Ms Berthold will be stationed at Inverell.
"I'm most looking forward to being part of the community and learning as much as possible," she said.
"Being a country girl, I'm excited to work in such a friendly town."
Mr Gilbody put down his tools as an Armidale builder and headed to the NSW Police Force Academy in Goulburn. He'll also be joining the ranks at Inverell.
"I'm looking forward to becoming a part of the Inverell community, and interacting with a diverse range of people," he said.
Mr Butler will be headed a little further west for his posting as a police officer.
Moree will welcome him as a probationary constable.
"Growing up I've respected the role police play in the community and it's something I have always wanted to do," Mr Butler said.
Tuesday was an initiation day for the trio, who are fresh on the beat after leaving the police academy just last week.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall congratulated the three new officers on their graduation.
"I am always thrilled to be able to welcome new police officers to the New England Police District," Mr Marshall said.
"They will of course, be warmly welcomed into the local police 'family' and I have no doubt our communities in Moree and Inverell, will similarly roll out the welcome mat.
"We're stepping up the numbers of police in this region and importantly, the visibility of police, to help prevent crime, not just apprehend those who perpetrate it."
The three probationary constables posted to the region were part of a class of 192 graduates.
Police and crime reporter at the Newcastle Herald.
Police and crime reporter at the Newcastle Herald.
