General News
14 August, 2024
Senior cop now in civic role
DAMIAN Meadows is a familiar face on the streets of Port Douglas and those who meet him soon recognise that he has a real passion for the Douglas Shire.
The Douglas Gazette recently caught up with the police officer-turned elected councillor to talk about his new role and what motivated him to make the change.
“Having worked closely and successfully with the operational side of council in my role as officer-in-charge of police (OIC), I felt that with my impending retirement it was just a natural transition to maintain that professional relationship and continue to support, advocate, and represent the greater Douglas community,” he said.
“I love the region and everything the Shire has to offer. We are diverse, yet we are all one proud Douglas community.”
The transition from local law enforcement to councillor did share some areas of commonality, Cr Meadows said, particularly when it came to budgetary planning and similar elements.
“My role in the Queensland Police Service was quite broad in my daily requirements,” he said.
“Being an operational OIC I responded to calls for service just like the rest of my staff as well as managed the planning of policing responses, operations, and resources to current and emerging issues for the division.
“I was required to be fiscally responsible and operate with budgetary requirements and still provide adequate service delivery, all while meeting the requirements and expectations of the senior executive’.
“Now in my current role, the goal posts haven’t really moved, just the people I answer to – the community.
“I will advocate for the community for what they see as the current and emerging issues and requirements, while maintaining financial responsibility.
“Fortunately, the elected members of council are focused on the community, particularly on the rebuild post-TC Jasper, but at the same time, committed to providing new and improved infrastructure, facilities, and service throughout the Shire.
“One thing is for sure, the level of dedication to the Shire from the operational staff is amazing, I’ve found them to all be very committed to doing the best they can for the community.”
Cr Meadows said his negotiating skills were portable to his new role.
