Ayr Police Station is now under historic new leadership, with veteran officer and former detective Lisa Shields becoming the station’s first-ever female Officer in Charge.
With more than two decades of service behind her—including eight years in general duties and a substantial career as a detective—she brings a wealth of experience and insight to the top job in Ayr.
"I feel honoured to be in this position," said Shields.
“I look forward to working alongside the community to ensure the Burdekin continues to be a safe and welcoming place to live, work and visit.”
As Officer in Charge, Shields plans to focus on domestic and family violence, road safety, and property crime, with a strong emphasis on strengthening relationships within the community.
“I want to enhance police visibility within the community,” she said.
“I hope to increase the trust that the community have in the local police, and to build strong relationships with local governments, schools, medical facilities, and local businesses."
Having served in towns across Queensland, including Beerwah, Murgon, Port Douglas, St George, Sarina, Coomera, and now Ayr, Shields is no stranger to rural policing.
“I understand the unique strengths and challenges that come with rural policing,” she said. “I’m committed to delivering a responsive, respectful and community-driven approach.”
Shields moved to the Burdekin in 2021 after being promoted to Officer in Charge of the Criminal Investigation Branch in Ayr. At the time, she arrived with her two young sons—now 12 and 10—not "knowing a soul."
“We found the community really welcoming,” she said.
“We settled in quickly and made some great friends—both the boys and I.”
Now building a house in the area, Shields said her family is now firmly planted in the Burdekin.
“I’ve only ever stayed three to six years in one place, but when I considered moving last year, the boys weren’t having a bar of it. They consider themselves Burdekin boys.”
Here for the long haul, Shields is looking forward to leading Ayr Police Station into the future, embracing her position as a role model.
“It’s really exciting to be leading such a great team here in the Burdekin,” she said.
“I’m proud to be a role model to other female officers, and to girls in general, who are aiming for leadership roles in any field.”
With more than two decades of service behind her, Shields brings a wealth of experience and insight to the top job in Ayr. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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