The latest recruits to the Blue Mountains Police Area Command have a distinctly international flavour, with new probationary constables having connections to places as far-flung as the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia.
The three new constables attested in August and include 24-year-old Daphne Wilson, who will be based in Springwood. Wilson grew up in Greece and now lives in Campbelltown. Prior to joining the police she worked as a lifeguard and gym attendant.
"I have always wanted to help people and was always keen on becoming a police officer," said Wilson. "I'm interested in specialising in investigations."
Joining Wilson at Springwood Police Station is Jack Lerpiniere, who grew up and completed high school in Singapore. Before being assigned to the Blue Mountains he lived in Brookvale on the Northern Beaches.
Having worked at Manly Leagues Club for four years, 23-year-old Lerpiniere's career change to policing is driven by a motivation to "be helpful to those people who need help in what may be the lowest or most distressing parts of their lives. I believe the best way to make change is to be a part of it."
"I chose policing because I have a degree in forensic sciences and hope to specialise within that field," he added.
The other new probationary constable is Belinda Grubb, 24, who is stationed at Katoomba. Grubb previously worked with HealthShare NSW at John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, where she is originally from.
"I want a career with variety and to help the community," she said. "Areas I would like to specialise in are Police Rescue, the Mounted Unit, the Dog Unit and Pol Air."
