SERGEANT CHRISTOPHER EDGE
Driver Training Unit, Human Resources Department
High-speed pursuits, sieges and arresting dangerous offenders are high adrenalin incidents that make policing interesting in the life of Sergeant Christopher Edge. “It’s exciting being involved in those sorts of incidents but they’re few and far between,” explains Chris. “I’ve been injured a few times, although thankfully not seriously.
“The main thing is, it’s satisfying going home at the end of the shift, feeling you’ve done something good, no matter how small.”
Chris describes how, during the most worrying and stressful time of his 11-year career in the Queensland Police Service (QPS), he received enormous support from his colleagues.
“encouraged to pursue goals”
“Unfortunately, I had to shoot someone to protect my partner and myself,” he says. “In the aftermath of the incident, the support I received from the Assistant Commissioner in the South Region, right on down to my work mates, was second to none.”
Chris later received the Commissioner’s Certificate for courage, resourcefulness and dedication to duty in relation to the shooting incident, an honour he describes as one of the highlights of his career.
Another highlight for Chris was when he performed Close Personal Protection duties during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (known as CHOGM), in the Sunshine Coast in March 2002 and met President Mbeke of South Africa.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work in a number of arenas,” says Chris. “My favourite sections are Covert Surveillance and the Driver Training Unit.”
Chris says he’s achieved his short and medium term career plans much quicker than he expected and is now being encouraged to pursue further goals.
“scope of opportunities”
“The police provide you with a vast array of training packages and courses to attend and complete,” explains Chris. “The scope of opportunities within the service is so diverse and varied that there really is something for everyone and a chance to progress at your own pace. I hope to stay in the Driver Training Unit for a few years.”
His advice to new recruits is to keep an open mind about people, places and things. “It’s very easy to become cynical and develop bad stereotypes,” states Chris. “Once sworn in don’t be in a hurry to get to a particular section. Take your time and check out all the QPS has to offer.”
Chris is married to fellow officer, Senior Constable Andrea Edge. “Sometimes we’re like ships passing in the night when Andrea and I have opposite shifts,” he says. “Other times, we have the same shifts and get to see more of each other.
“We try and make the most of those times and it seems to balance out quite well in the long run.”
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