A new chapter in local policing has begun in Baradine, with a police officer now stationed in the town following a period of more than 12 months without a dedicated police presence.

A warm community welcome has greeted twenty-five-year-old Constable Joshua Frost, who has officially commenced duties in Baradine this week.

Originally hailing from the Central Coast, Joshua more recently lived in Tamworth before commencing his police training.

“When I joined the police force a few years ago, I decided I want to come back to the country,” said Joshua. 

“I went for either Dubbo or Tamworth and I was lucky enough to get Dubbo and I am happy that I trained there for two years.

“I came out to Coonabarabran about six months ago for a weekend because they were short-staffed.  

"As soon as I came out here, I just thought it was right for me; I want to come out here full time and that's how I ended up in Baradine. 

"My family lives in Gunnedah now and Baradine is really the halfway point between Dubbo and Gunnedah.

Prior to that, Constable Frost attended the police academy for four months, but the training took around eighteen months.

"When you finish at the academy, they ask you for five places you would like to be posted to," he said.

"Some people get them. Some people don't.

"I was lucky enough to get Dubbo, but because Baradine is still a one police officer town you can't get there from the get-go, you need some experience first.”

Joshua explained that his training and operational experience strengthened his commitment to serving the community, which was the primary motivation behind his decision to join the police force.

“When I was 18, I wanted to go into the Army but I didn't end up going down that path because I had other commitments,” he said.  

“I thought joining the police was the next best option and I'm happy that I made the choice. It's a challenging job, but it's a good job and I enjoy it.

“I know this is a big area to cover and obviously my priority is being the first response.

"However, putting more focus on duties in Baradine has been discussed so that I am not called away so much. So, I am aiming to focus on that, so I can actually put my face to the name and be seen out and about in the community.

“Depending of course on circumstances, I plan on being here for a long time. 

"I am very happy to be here, especially knowing that small towns like this without a police officer are struggling.

"I'm just happy to be here because I know there are some problems.”

Adrian Worrell with fellow resident Garnett Martin signing a petition in May 2025 seeking a replacement police officer in Baradine. [IMAGE: Liz Cutts]

Residents have expressed their delight at having a police officer once again based in the town, describing the appointment as an important step in strengthening community safety and connection in the district.

Driver of the petition for a police presence in Baradine, Adrian Worrell described the return of a police officer as a win for the entire community.

“It’s great that we have an officer back living in the police station house in Baradine,” he said.

“It is also great to see the efforts of the community rewarded with the return of a police officer in our town.

"The community never gave up, and it’s wonderful to see that persistence pays off.

“Constable Frost’s arrival is great news for the town and a positive step forward for community safety.”