Deniliquin’s policing power has increased by two, with the addition of two Probationary Constables to the Murray River Police District team last month.
Ryan Pontt and Luke Van Bruinessen are among the first class of new officers to be paid to study at the Goulburn Police Academy.
While he had never been to Deniliquin before getting his posting here, Const Pontt is not too far away from home.
He’s lived in the Albury area all his life.
He said he was inspired to join the NSW Police Force after witnessing violence in the home.
“My mother was involved in a domestic incident, and I saw that,” he said.
“I knew then I wanted to do something to help (later in life).
“I think I made the decision to become a police office in about 2021, but it took a little time to get there.”
Cont Pontt said while Murray River Police District was his first choice in assignment, he was hoping to be assigned to the Albury station, or one a little closer to home.
But he said he’s impressed with Deniliquin so far.
“I had never been to Deni before, but I organised my accommodation as soon as I got my placement and packed up the car and drove here the very same day I graduated,” he said.
“It’s a nice and quiet town, and everyone I have met has been quite friendly.”
Outside of work, Const Pontt said he takes an interest in cars.
Const Van Bruinessen had also never been to Deniliquin before his posting, and coming from the Sydney suburb of Blacktown he said the change has been “big but good”.
The Murray River district was not in his preferences, but he said he’s happy to go with the flow.
He will be joined in Deniliquin by his girlfriend, where they hope to spend some quality quiet weekends when not working.
“It will be a good adventure,” he said.
“Everyone has been telling me about the Deni Ute Muster, so I’m very excited for that.”
Const Van Bruinessen said he was inspired to join the police force because he has always liked helping and talking to people.