Probationary Constables (from left) Aiden Wilson, Talia Vink and Jack Huskinson launched their new careers in Griffith this week. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
A former outdoor education instructor, a personal trainer and a plasterer have moved to Griffith to begin a career transformation, starting work as probationary constables with Murrumbidgee Police this week.
Talia Vink, 23, and Jack Huskinson, 27, have already lived in Griffith for the past year because their partners work in the force, while Aiden Wilson, 23, has recently moved to town from Lake Macquarie.
“I didn’t know much about Griffith. I Googled it and it didn’t even come up on the map, but I’m settling in well,” Constable Wilson said.
The recruits have also been getting to know the town through its food, with Constable Huskinson naming Bull & Bell Steakhouse as a favourite and Constable Vink opting for Little Italy.
“I had Chinese at Malcolm’s and it was great,” Constable Wilson said.
Constable Huskinson, who hails from Crookwell near Goulburn, said joining the police force was something he had considered for years.
“My mum always thought I should be a police officer from when I was young,” he said.
“I previously worked as a personal trainer. It was great, but I wanted to do something a bit more rewarding.”
Working alongside his wife is something he sees as a benefit, although the pair has established some boundaries between work and home.
“We both understand what we’re going through, but we’ve set some ground rules,” he said.
“We can have a quick debrief about work and a longer chat about things that are distressing, but we don’t want to talk shop all night.”
Constable Vink previously had what many would consider a dream job, teaching people to rock climb and sail as part of her work in outdoor education.
But she believes she has found something even better.
“I wanted to help the community and do an active job. Believe it or not, I actually like doing admin,” she said.
“I didn’t tell anyone I was going to be a police officer until I was a long way down the track. My friends were surprised about my new career, but I like it.”
Constable Wilson has previously worked three jobs: as a plasterer, a disability support officer and at a stadium.
“I also wanted to help the community. I’d like to eventually get into highway patrol because I love cars,” he said.
He is also keen to check out Griffith’s dirt-bike riding scene, although District Inspector Glenn Smith has urged him to put the brakes on for now.
“It’s great to take up a new hobby, but I’d advise them to avoid doing any risky sports or activities until after they finish their probation,” Inspector Smith said.
“I knew a guy who broke his neck doing karate during probation. You really want to get through that first year without injuries.”
Inspector Smith, a 31-year veteran of the police force, did not hesitate when asked for his key piece of advice to the three rookies.
“Always ask questions. If you make a mistake, admit it. Don’t lie,” he said.
“If you make a small mistake and cover it up, you can lose your job. But if you make a huge mistake and own up to it, you’ll always be better off.”
Anyone interested in a career with the NSW Police can find out more online.
