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.