A mix of all sorts converged into a common line of ambition for these newcomers - to serve and protect.
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Thirteen police officers have joined the local area commands in the latest intake of fresh recruits.
Nine new probationary constables take position at St George, and four have been posted to Sutherland.
They join 201 statewide graduates to its ranks, welcomed in a ceremony at the Police Academy in Goulbourn on Friday.
Those from 'Class of 336' (201 recruits) will complete 12 months on-the-job training and study of the Associate Degree in Policing Practice by distance education with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to the rank of constable.
St George Police chief inspector Craig James says the new recruits are a unique bunch.
"They come from various backgrounds - some are parents, some hail from the city, some from the country and one officer is originally from China," he said.
"We have a second generation police officer. We have staff from managerial, legal, retail and child care backgrounds. Many of these officers hold tertiary qualifications, and range from ages 20-36.
"They bring with them prior employment skills that will benefit them as police officers.
He says they will undergo several days of induction and further training, and will then be deployed into the field to commence policing within the community.
"They undergo a rigorous 12 months of ongoing testing and academic studies, so the hard work for them starts from today," he said.
And while perhaps a little daunting they say, securing a place at one of the busiest commands in the state is exciting.
NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller says the most recent academy graduates are about to embark on a challenging, yet highly rewarding career path.
“Police play such an important role within our communities and these officers have worked hard – both physically and academically – to reach this milestone,” he said.
“When they walk off the parade ground, these probationary constables will be tasked with ensuring the safety and security of the people of NSW."
