BENDIGO police are calling on local people to join the force, with the station set to host a careers information evening later in the month.
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Acting Sergeant Travis Dole said local people had a good knowledge of the area, giving them an advantage.
"We're trying to promote working in the town you live. If you have an understanding of the community and the people, it's definitely an advantage," he said.
Acting Sergeant Dole said the station was also trying to increase its number of DWTs - dedicated workplace training employees.
Constable Tara Crotty has always wanted to be a policewoman.
"I applied about nine years ago but I was advised to get a little bit more life experience. So I did that and then joined. When I was younger I always wanted to do it. It was one of those things," she said.
Originally from Bacchus Marsh, Constable Crotty moved to Bendigo prior to joining the police academy.
She is currently working as a DTW at the Bendigo Police Station. The 31-year-old said the job was diverse.
"You don't know what's going to come your way. Each day is different," she said.
Constable Crotty said the application process was long and rigorous but people shouldn't be deterred.
"If it's something people want to really do, then do it. It took me nearly two years to get in," she said.
"People shouldn't be disheartened if it takes them a while. Stick with it."
The salary for a member who is sworn in after 13 weeks of training is $60,526, with the pay to increase annually.
Constable Chris Martin, 36, said he worked in the construction industry before joining the police academy. He said the career change was one he didn't regret.
"You go from doing the same thing day in, day out. You get the financial reward but a job like this you get a bit more of a personal reward," he said.
The Bendigo Police Station will host the careers evening on May 28.
To register, contact the station on 5448 1300.
The Bendigo Advertiser will publish a series of stories in the lead up to the careers evening.