SARGE HAS THAT COMMON TOUCH

BEING a police officer is more than just a job for Palm Island’s Dave Rutherford, who has been awarded one of the service’s highest honours for more than 30 years of dedication.

Senior Sergeant Rutherford said he never expected to be honoured with the Australian Police Medal but was thrilled the force had noticed his efforts, especially in rural indigenous communities.

He has been instrumental in bridging the gap between police and indigenous communities and has delved into indigenous culture and practices.

Sen-sgt Rutherford, 53, said working in regional areas allowed him to become more than just an authority to residents.

“You are a lot more involved in the community and not always meeting them as an officer but as a fellow member of the public,” he said.

Sen-sgt Rutherford started his police career in 1986 and spent 10 years working in Brisbane.

He gave up his metropolitan gig and moved north, eventually working as the officer-incharge at Normanton, Horn Island, Bamaga and Palm Island.

Sen-sgt Rutherford said working in Cape York, the Gulf of Carpentaria and the Torres Strait were some of his greatest career moments.

He was honoured for building a significant rapport with these communities and providing a safe environment for children and families.

It is an approach that he encourages among his staff.

“It’s all been a highlight,” he said.

Sen-sgt Rutherford had no plans to head back to the cities and was looking forward to other opportunities that might come his way.