Meet the new cop on the beat: Focus will be on safety & confidence in the CBD
Senior Constable Aaron Caldwell says his priority is to “make sure everyone feels like they can move around the CBD safely and with confidence”.
The Nambour community will soon welcome a dedicated, full-time police presence in the heart of the CBD, with the new Nambour Police Beat set to open in the coming weeks.
Member for Nicklin, Marty Hunt, recently secured the CBD Police Beat after being elected last year and this week congratulates Senior Constable Aaron Caldwell on being appointed to the role.
“Senior Constable Caldwell brings 16 years of frontline policing experience, a deep connection to our region and a genuine commitment to community safety,” Mr Hunt said.
“He is well-experienced, well-respected and exactly the type of officer our community needs in this permanent position. Importantly this is a brand-new position that enhances local policing without reducing any of the existing resources at Nambour Police Station.”
With a background spanning the ADF, deployments to East Timor and Afghanistan, two years at the Buderim Police Beat, and extensive duties across the Sunshine Coast and Moreton policing districts, Senior Constable Caldwell brings a wealth of experience and a strong local focus to his new position.
Q&A with Senior Constable Aaron Caldwell
Q: When did you join the Police Service, and what inspired you to join?
A: I had always been interested in being a police officer, but I joined the Army when I finished school. I started a Diploma in Justice Administration, but overseas deployments, courses and training took up a lot of my time. Eventually I decided to apply to be a police officer and ceased my full-time service with the ADF. I commenced police training in April 2009 and have been based in the Sunshine Coast and Moreton districts in General Duties and Police Beat roles. I also assist with annual operational skills and tactics training for Sunshine Coast officers.
Senior Constable Aaron Caldwell: “People who’ve met me know I’m firm but fair.”
Q: What do you enjoy most about your role?
A: Getting out into the community and working with the public, business owners, NGOs, government and council. I enjoy educating people and helping them make informed, safer choices.
Q: What do you love about Nambour, and what are you looking forward to most in this new position?
A: I work local, I live local and I shop local. I started high school in Nambour and always wanted to come back. Taking on the Police Beat role solidifies the work already underway here in Nambour.
Q: What are the key priorities you hope to focus on as the Nambour Police Beat officer?
A: Making sure everyone feels like they can move around the CBD safely and with confidence.
Q: When the Beat opens soon, how can community members best engage with you or report concerns?
A: Reporting crime remains the same - call 000 in an emergency, or contact Policelink for non-urgent matters. For Nambour CBD-specific concerns, the best approach is to speak with me directly when I’m out patrolling the streets or shopping areas. While the Police Beat office on Lowe St will be an important base, you’ll often find me out on foot in the CBD. A visible presence in public spaces is the best way to support the community, stay connected and respond quickly when needed.
Q: When you’re off duty, what do you enjoy in your downtime?
A: I’m still involved in the Army Reserve, so I spend a fair bit of time in that uniform. When I’m not working, I enjoy riding my Harley and working around my house. I also love to travel and explore, whether here on the Coast or overseas.
Q: What’s one thing you’d like local residents and business owners to know about you ahead of the Police Beat opening?
A: People who’ve met me know I’m firm but fair. Whenever possible, I aim to educate and guide. Respect goes a long way with me.