New South Wales Police Commissioner, Andrew Scipione APM, has unveiled a bumper calendar of special events to commemorate the Force's 150th birthday in 2012.
Celebrations to mark the milestone will include an Australia Day policing spectacular on Sydney's Cockle Bay; a 'Sea of Blue' parade through central Sydney; a Police Expo at Darling Harbour -- billed as the Force's biggest-ever 'open day'; and a dramatic arena-based policing demonstration at the Royal Easter Show.
Australian author Patrick Lindsay has also commenced work on 'True Blue... 150 Years of Service and Sacrifice' -- tracing the Force's remarkable journey from the nation's European birth to today, through the eyes of its members.
The book, which will honour the courage, resolution and sacrifices of police and celebrate their contribution to the community, will be published mid next year.
Commissioner Scipione said it's a significant milestone in the Force's history.
"NSW Police Force has come a long way in 150 years and is now one of the largest policing organisations in the English-speaking world -- with more than 15,600 sworn officers and close to 4000 civilian staff," the Commissioner said.
"During 2012, we'll reflect on our proud history; honour the bravery and sacrifices of officers both past and present; and continue to build a strong foundation for the Force's future.
"Patrick Lindsay's book will capture the spirit of the Force by interweaving evocative images with stories about the characters and events that have formed our wonderful heritage.
"The special events and activities will provide a fitting tribute to the Force that's served the people of New South Wales so well since its inception in 1862.
"I believe the anniversary is as significant to the wider community as it is to our police family because of the influential role the Force has had in shaping New South Wales," he said.
On Thursday 1 March next year, the 150th anniversary will be formally launched with a parade through central Sydney. The NSW Police Force banner will be brought ashore by Water Police vessel at Campbell Cove in The Rocks before being escorted by a 'Sea of Blue' marching contingent along George Street to Town Hall.
The parade will be held 150 years to the day since the various independent police units of the colony were combined under the Police Regulation Act to form the NSW Police Force.
Other events planned to celebrate the momentous occasion, include:
A police display, involving the Marine Area Command, Polair and other specialist resources, on Cockle Bay on Australia Day (26 January 2012);
A NSW Police Force Expo -- billed as the biggest-ever police 'Open Day' -- at Darling Harbour in April;
A dramatic arena-based policing demonstration to be held at the Sydney Royal Easter Show;
An historic policing exhibition to be staged at the Sydney Justice and Police Museum between May and October; and
Command-based activities across the state.
"These special events will engage the public and give them the chance to show their support for the men and women in blue who work tirelessly everyday to make this state a safer place," Commissioner Scipione said.
150th anniversary celebrations will run through to National Police Remembrance Day on Saturday 29 September 2012.
Next year also marks the Police Rescue Squad's 70th and Police and Community Youth Club's 75th birthdays.
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