Since early February, he has been operating as a boating safety officer with Transport for NSW, Maritime Division in Melbourne Street Mulwala.
Mr Thorpe covers the area from Jillamatong to Tocumwal, inclusive of Lake Mulwala and part of the Ovens River.
“I have an interest in water activities and enjoy boating in my spare time,” he told the Yarrawonga Chronicle about his reason for a career change, albeit still a policing role.
“It was an opportunity to transition to another department and focus on safety and mixing up with the community.”
The recently turned 50-year-old enjoyed his 19 years in the NSW Police Force, the last 15 of which were spent at Mulwala.
“I enjoyed my police career,” he said. “I thoroughly enjoyed it but it was time to try to be in the maritime services for me.”
Maritime services are similar to those carried out by land-based police, including crime prevention and detection, search and rescue.
Local area police sergeant Gary Lewis said Mr Thorpe has been a valued and important member of the police team at Mulwala.
“We are glad to have him still around although in a different capacity,” Sgt. Lewis said. “I’m looking forward to continuing the strong working relationship with Maritime Services.”
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