Three of the Service's finest internationally recognised

Minister for Police and Minister for Corrective Services Mark Ryan MP and Commissioner Ian Stewart today welcomed the announcement of three Queensland Police Service (QPS) female officers who will receive awards from the International Association of Women Police (IAWP); an international honour in recognition of their distinguished service.

Each year the IAWP receives nominations from across the globe for women in policing who are deserving of recognition for their contribution to policing and to their local communities.

This year’s QPS recipients are Superintendent Virginia Nelson, Sergeant Gina Scott and Senior Constable Catherine Nielsen. They will be presented with their awards at an event held at IAWP’s 56th Annual Training Conference between August 26 and 30 2018, in Calgary, Canada.

Superintendent Nelson will be awarded the ‘Mentoring and Coaching’ award for her significant role in the support and development in women in policing. With 27 years of service, Superintendent Nelson is a strong advocate for QPS gender equality, diversity and inclusion amongst its members. She has contributed to development programs for senior police and emergency services across Australasia including in the Solomon Islands and Indonesia.

Sergeant Scott will be awarded the ‘Community Service’ award her exemplary actions within the Mount Isa community. Sergeant Scott identified challenges within the Mount Isa area, particularly with youth crime. She sought to resolve these issues by implementing a weekly program named ‘Chillin’ assisted by the Mt Isa Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC). The program provides ‘at risk’ youths free activities including sport, art and craft and referral options to community groups for further support. The initiative has increased community confidence in police and has significantly decreased disengagement among youths.

Senior Constable Nielsen will be awarded the ‘Bravery’ award for her exemplary act of bravery and heroism, where she risked her own personal safety in the face of danger during an incident involving colleague Senior Constable Brett Forte who lost his life last year. Senior Constable Nielsen showed commitment and loyalty to her service, colleagues and her community.

Minister Ryan said the three recipients had proven a range of skills and attributes that enable Queenslanders to place their faith and confidence in their police service.

“They are a credit to the Queensland Police Service, to the community they serve, and to their family and friends.”

“All three recipients should be very proud of their achievements,” Minister Ryan said.

 Commissioner Stewart acknowledged the dedication of each of the recipients.

"It is a great honour for three QPS officers to be recognised for such significant awards,” Commissioner Stewart said.

“Each recipient has shown their individual outstanding contribution and commitment to serve the Queensland community.

"Their leadership abilities and professionalism are qualities that reflect the high standards which are expected of an officer of the Queensland Police Service.

"I would like to congratulate and give my own personal thanks to each of the officers and also recognise them on behalf of the Service.”

Media contacts 

Minister Ryan’s Office:                                                       Ph: (07) 3035 8300

Police Media:                                                                       Ph: (07) 3015 2444