Sergeant Barton Bids Farewell After 41 Years

After more than four decades in the Queensland Police Service, Steve Barton, Officer‑in‑Charge at Ayr Police Station, is hanging up his badge with much pride and little fanfare—exactly how he prefers it.

“I’ve just really enjoyed doing what I’ve done,” he said.

“Every job has its challenges and things you wish you’d done better, but [I'm proud of] my commitment to the work and the community.”

A Career Built On Commitment And Connection

Barton began his career in the early 1980s, serving across Queensland in towns including Toowoomba, Blackwater, Capella, Hervey Bay and, for the past 15 years, Ayr. Much of that time was spent in small one‑ and two‑officer stations, a vastly different experience, he says, to larger postings.

“You had no one to rely on—sometimes you just hoped bad things didn’t happen. You certainly learned how to talk to people quickly and communicate well,” he recalled.

Over the years, Barton has also watched the job change dramatically, particularly with the rise of technology. “When I started, we were still using cardboard cards to keep records. Now you’ve got almost everything at your fingertips,” he said.

Through all the changes, Barton says what’s stayed consistent is the personal connection that come with policing small rural towns.

“You get to know people, even those you deal with regularly, and it becomes more personable. Sometimes you go that extra bit, like helping an elderly couple get home after a crash. It’s just what you do.”

As for retirement, Steve and his wife plan to stay in the region. “We like the slower pace of life here. Townsville’s close enough for what we need, the community’s good, and the weather’s fine—apart from summer, which is a bit of a prick,” he said with a laugh.

Looking back, he hopes to be remembered simply as “an effective officer in charge, devoted to duty.”

“I’ve had my time. I’m comfortable with what I’ve done and ready for the next chapter,” he said.

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