Global experience. One PSG team.
Tarek served almost 19 years in the Bangladesh Police, most of it in the capital Dhaka, a vibrant city of more than 20 million people. Achieving the rank of Superintendent, he twice received the Presidents Police Medal in recognition of his work in criminal investigations and maintaining law and order. In 2011 he completed a 7-week Explosive Incidents and Countermeasures Course in North Carolina U.S.A. returning to the United States again in 2013, to complete a Post Blast Investigation Course. This knowledge was put to good use on his return home, where he worked closely with the AFP Liaison Officer at the Australian High Commission in Dhaka. In 2014 Tarek earned a United Nations Peacekeeping Medal having spent a year as an advisor in Darfur, Sudan. He also completed an RMIT International University, Asia Region Law Enforcement Management Programme in Vietnam through the Australian Federal Police. In 2024 Tarek emigrated to Australia with his wife Humaira and to further his education, completed a Masters in International Security Studies through Macquarie University, Sydney. When not working or studying, Tarek manages to fit in some gardening and indulge in his love of travel both in Australia and overseas with Humaira.
Ian served for nearly 24 years in the New Zealand Police and while he was stationed in some very desirable locations like Queenstown, Arrowtown, Te Anau, Mt Maunganui and the sole charge Stewart Island, he also did the hard yards, completing 5 years in two of New Zealand’s toughest gang towns in Wairoa (Hawkes Bay) and Opotiki (Bay of Plenty). In 1991 he was awarded the highest commendation for bravery in the NZ Police, the Commissioners Gold Merit Award, for his actions after being shot at during an armed robbery in the Bay of Plenty that year. There was an upside to it all though. He met his wife of 46 years, Lesley in Wairoa and he regards the time they spent in Opotiki with their four young children, among the most satisfying of his career. Ian has been heavily involved in Rugby Union all his life and although he insists he was of rather limited ability, he did mark two All Black captains in his playing days at lock, something he describes as “two very difficult afternoons!” With a soon to be 7 grandsons, one granddaughter and two great-grandsons, Ian jokes that any Specials or overtime that he works goes almost entirely towards birthday presents!!
Chris Owens – Senior Protective Services Officer, Chaplain and Community Volunteer
I joined the Protective Services Group in October 2023 and graduated that December, bringing with me more than 20 years of experience working with and supporting the community.
Before joining PSG, I spent six years serving with, and ten years leading, the Brisbane NightWatch Chaplaincy team - responding to emergencies and crises throughout Brisbane’s nightlife precincts. Many of our volunteers were PSOs and spoke highly of the work. After 16 years of late nights, I decided it was time for a new challenge that still allowed me to keep my city safe. Alongside my role as an SPSO, I’m also a full-time Chaplain and a registered minister of religion, which makes for a unique combination. What I love most about being a Protective Services Officer is the flexibility and diversity of the work -from courthouses to patrols, every day is different. Above all, I’m passionate about encouraging others to see the value in what we do and take pride in helping keep Queensland safe.
Paula Berry-Smith – Senior Protective Services Officer, Caloundra Courthouse
I joined the Protective Services Group in January 2024 after a long and rewarding career in the UK ambulance service, where I began in 1994. In 1990 I left the UK as a solo Backpacker and did a year travelling Australia, it was this journey that always made me want to come back here.
In 2008, this wish came true when Queensland Ambulance Service had a worldwide recruitment drive of qualified Paramedics and this is how I came back here with my ex-husband (Paramedic) and our daughter who was 5yrs old at the time …… I love living here ?
Over the years, I worked through major events like floods and the “foot and mouth” crisis, and even did a 19-month secondment in the 999 call centre, an experience that taught me the real meaning of calm under pressure.
A chance conversation with one of PSG's Building Service Coordinator at Maroochydore inspired me to apply for the PSO role, and the rest is history! After graduating from the Academy and completing deployments in Rockhampton and Townsville, I now work at the Caloundra Courthouse, a one-officer site that allows me to make a personal difference every day. I’ve always believed that compassion matters, especially when people come to court during difficult times.
Fun fact - As a paramedic previously, I’ve delivered nine babies (including twins!) and somehow ended up helping someone mid-flight every time I travel. I may never lose my London accent, but I’ve certainly found a new home and purpose here in Queensland.
Cooper Hansberry – Senior Protective Services Officer
I joined the Protective Services Group about seven months ago after previously training as a police recruit with the Queensland Police Service. Before that, I spent three and a half years working at Woolworths as a front-end supervisor, and I graduated from high school in 2023.
When I was told I needed more life experience before reapplying for the QPS, I saw PSG as the perfect opportunity to build that experience while still serving the community. Since joining, I’ve gained so much from this role, not just in skills and knowledge, but in confidence and self-awareness. Every day brings something new to learn, whether it’s a small lesson or a big one. What stands out most to me is the sense of community and care within PSG. The teams I’ve worked with are incredibly supportive and always encourage personal growth. I’m proud to be part of a group that helps shape you into the person you want to become.
Keegan Smith – Senior Protective Services Officer, TransLink Safety Unit
I’ve been part of the Protective Services Group for a year, working as a Senior Protective Services Officer within the TransLink Safety Unit. I’m also studying for my bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice, so this role aligns perfectly with my studies and career goals.
What I enjoy most about working with PSG is the flexibility, as a shift officer, I’ve been able to focus on my university work while still gaining valuable, hands-on experience in public safety. I enjoy the variety and pace of working around King George Square and Queen Street, where no two days are the same.
Whether I’m helping someone find the right bus or ensuring the security of government assets, I find it rewarding to know that the work I do contributes to community safety. This role has given me both professional growth and a sense of purpose, connecting what I learn in the classroom with real-world experience.