Women in the AFP - Sheena Greig, ACT Policing Traffic Operations
It was curiosity about what lay behind the back door of the police station that led Sheena Greig into a career as an unsworn officer with the Australian Federal Police (AFP).
‘I used to work in an office opposite the police station and I’d look out of the window and wonder what lay in front of the police officers that day,’ Sheena said. ‘When I saw an advert for administrative support staff for ACT Policing I knew I just had to apply.’
Now she is an integral part of the AFP’s Traffic Operations team.
With a great sense of humour, a lilting Scottish accent and an undying dedication to her job, Sheena is the thread binding Traffic into one of the closest-knit departments in ACT Policing.
‘It’s the best job I’ve ever had. I love coming to work. There’s always such a great buzz in an operational station.
‘I have always been interested in the police and what they stand for, such as the discipline and the values that ensure fairness and accountability.’
In her role as personal assistant to the Superintendent of Traffic Operations, Sheena does everything from managing the Superintendent’s diary, to arranging meetings, assisting with rosters, overseeing finances and carrying out research for special projects.
She is also in charge of social events, organising venues, flyers and tickets—and making sure everyone has a good time.
Her toughest daily challenge is ‘being clearly understood’.
‘I have only been in Australia for six-and-a-half years and am told I have a strong Scottish accent. I have learned to realise when the person I am speaking to does not understand me—they have this blank look on their face and agree to everything! Pity it doesn’t work on my boss!’
Sheena is one of the most well known people in the AFP, because every new ACT Policing recruit spends two weeks in Traffic before they go on to their respective stations.
‘They all seem to remember me. Maybe it’s the accent. But I do try to take a personal interest in everyone. They know that they can come and talk to me at any time and use me as a sounding board or a shoulder to cry on.’
As a testament to the valuable role she fills, Sheena has twice been awarded Traffic Operations Member of the Year, in 2006 and 2007.
One of the many enjoyable aspects of her job is playing an active part in motorcade training.
‘It’s important that the motorcyclist are trained in escorting skills, so I get to role play visiting dignitaries and they have to escort me around, which is a lot of fun,’ Sheena said.
The role playing came in handy when Sheena was allowed to travel with the advance car for the Queen during her last Australian visit.
‘At the airport the Traffic members lined the runway next to their cars and motorcycles and I was able to view the royal couple close up. It was the closest I’d ever been to royalty.’
Sheena believes the AFP is a great career option for young women and men.
‘It will keep you fit, your mind active and stand you in good stead for future career developments. It will provide you with life experience dealing with all types of people and good communication skills.’
While happy in her current role, Sheena would one day like to take on some different challenges.
‘There are so many opportunities for unsworn members within the AFP, supporting the members on the front line—not only in Australia, but on overseas postings as well. There is also a chance to study and learn new skills.
‘I have been provided with so many learning opportunities. I am working with quality people and am proud to do so. And now I know what lies beyond the door!’
March 2008