Getting a grip on the Outback beat (and the heat!)

Chief Inspector Helen Dean had a tour of Outback Radio 2WEB and The Western Herald on Monday– with Superintendent Gerard Lawson and 2WEB’s Rod Corfe. Photo TWH

A couple of weeks into her new role, Chief Inspector Helen Dean is adjusting to life in Bourke.

Chief Inspector Dean, who is the new Officer-in-Charge of the Bourke Police Station, said the sheer size of the Central North Police District is not what she is used to.

“It’s huge,” she said. “I’ve worked in some big commands, like Brisbane Waters and Tuggerah Lakes, but this is next level huge.

“I’m still trying to get my head around the size of the police district, and the time to get from A to B is going to be an adjustment for me.

“In police districts I’ve worked at previously, there’s been several superintendents to answer to, but here it’s just the one. There was one time where I answered to about 18 superintendents.”

That one local superintendent is Central North Police District Commander, Superintendent Gerard Lawson.

Supt Lawson said Inspector Dean, who has transferred from the Central Coast brings with her a strong reputation for excellent leadership.

“Helen has a vast range of experience as a leader and a senior member of the police service,” he said. […]

Read more local news in the printed edition of The Western Herald.

To subscribe call (02) 6872 2333 today and receive The Western Herald in your letterbox next week!