Cop after new path

Rockingham Constable Gemma Palmer said she was after a change of direction in her life and transitioning from a career in hair dressing to the WA Police force was quite a journey.

Having graduated on August 23, the probationary constable embraced a post close to home and settled in with the team at Rockingham.

Const. Palmer said the 28-week training was hard work and the physical aspect was tough.

“My favourite part of the training was Osttu — which is tactical and operational training and learning how to use tasers and firearms,” she said.

Const. Palmer said the squad spent time training in scenario villages.

“We had actors and they make it so realistic... it’s pretty psychological,” she said.

After the birth of her first child, Const. Palmer said she was looking for a new challenge as she was not prepared to be a stay-at-home mum.

“I loved the training and it was like nothing I’ve ever done before,” she said.

Const. Palmer said the team at Rockingham had helped her a lot.

“I hope to stay in general duties for a while, but I was told by my squad that I’d make a good detective, so who knows,” she said.

Const. Palmer said she wanted to be a police officer to help people in the community.