Graeme – Retired Ex-Police Dog Handler
What makes you happiest/When are you the happiest?
Since retiring I can’t recall a time when I haven’t been happy. If I had to provide a time it would be when I’m with the Grandchildren or playing golf.
How do you recharge?
By getting away to Cape Paterson. It’s a great spot all year round.
If you weren’t a Police Officer what do you think you would have done?
I would have probably continued as a Refrigeration Mechanic, that was my trade before joining the Police Force.
What does retirement look like for you?
Retirement for my wife and me - putting my concerns aside from the current economic climate – is spending time with the Grandchildren and travel. We like to travel in winter and discover Australia.
If you could have any super power what would it be?
To foresee the future would be pretty cool.
If you could live in a book, TV show or movie, what would it be?
It would be something futuristic and space related.
Why did you choose your profession?
I believe I was slightly influenced by memories I had of an old next-door neighbour who was a Police Officer.
If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be?
Europe.
What are your thoughts when you think about your Super?
In theory great and I believe it’s a good idea to invest in your Super. I would just like the Government to leave it alone and allow some stability.
What was your biggest challenge in your role as a Police Officer?
I’d probably say that it was dealing with members of the public that sit on the fringe, they are only looking out for themselves and very hard to reason with.
What did you enjoy most about being a Police Officer?
In the Dog Squad especially, it was the independence. The ability to make decisions on the go whilst having the support of the Force and also the feeling of contributing and adding value.
What’s something surprising about being a Police Officer that people may not know?
Being in the Dog Squad it was the misconception that I was a dog catcher! I know, it’s ridiculous.
Is it true that once a Police Officer always a Police Officer?
Yeah.
If you could offer one piece of advice about superannuation and retirement what would it be?
Put in as much as you can afford at that time, every cent counts in the end. And when in retirement, don’t be greedy.