Superintendent Paul McDonald reflects on his time in Moree

Superintendent McDonald said the past two years at Barwon had been both a pleasure and a challenge but overall an opportunity for which he was extremely grateful.

After coming through the ranks in criminal investigation, including major crime investigation, he spent ten years in the metropolitan locations of North Sydney, The Rocks and Kings Cross before his promotion to Commander in the tree change location of Barwon.

“Whilst there has been challenges during the past two years we’ve also made great achievements including the protracted investigations of Strike Forces NIVISON and SASSAFRA which resulted in the arrests of nine people for methyl amphetamine and firearms supply.

“An increased investment in developing stronger interagency links to provide a whole of government approach to crime and social issues saw crime rates in Boggabilla drop to one of the lowest on record.

“And in Moree the community showed its support for Police by funding the purchase of two trail bikes for the Command".

The Barwon LAC trailbikes have been used in patrols for anti-social behaviour and property offences; protest activities in the Southern Sector, during Strike Force SASSAFRA and saw a 55 per cent increase in the recovery of stolen motorbikes and the like within Moree.

“Our local police have shown exceptional commitment to duty. Often their job is distressing and involves dealing with members of the community at very low points in their lives. Despite this they continue to be dedicated to reducing crime and protecting the families within these great communities of Barwon” he said.

“I’ll leave with fond memories of Barwon and in particular Moree – the friendships I’ve made both at work and at a personal level will stay with me,” Mr McDonald said.

Superintendent McDonald will now take up position as Commander of Chifley whilst Acting Superintendent Scott Tanner has been welcomed to Barwon Local Area Command.