Ever wondered how policing in Brisbane began? Let’s step back in time and explore the story of the Brisbane City Police.
The Queensland Police Force was born on January 1 1864. It started with 287 officers serving 61467 people. David Thompson Seymour was the first Commissioner.
Imagine Brisbane back then. Transport relied on foot and horseback. Letters moved by horse stagecoach or telegram. Commissioner Seymour created the first police guidelines. They were called “Rules for the General Government and Discipline”. These rules followed the Victorian police model.
In December 1864 a Detective Office was created. Sub-Inspector George Elliott led it. There were 27 police stations. 151 officers patrolled on foot and horseback. There were also 16 native police camps. They had 136 European officers and indigenous troopers. Brisbane Ipswich Rockhampton and Maryborough had bigger police forces.
Accommodation was a problem. Many officers lived in lodgings. Some constables lived in pubs far from the lock-up. This made them slow to respond to emergencies.
Commissioner Seymour fought bushranging. He bought fresh horses. He built secure paddocks at every station. Water police patrolled the Brisbane River from the hulk Proserpine. Every station got revolvers. The Department received 50 breech-loading carbines.
In 1866 the Bread or Blood riot threatened Government House. Hundreds of officials became special constables. They helped the police. The first uniform was dark blue with red trim and a high cap.
Constable Patrick William Cahill and Constable John Francis Power were murdered in 1867. They were escorting bank notes. The Detective Office’s first test was solving their murders. Commissioner Seymour ordered weekly drills.
In 1869 the police rule book was printed and distributed. Each constable carried one pair of handcuffs.
Navy blue helmets arrived in the 1870s. They were too hot. White helmets replaced them in 1896. A police barracks opened in George Street in 1870. It stood where the old convict hospital had been. “Senior constable” replaced “acting sergeant”.
A police manual appeared in 1876. It told constables to know everyone in their area. This helped prevent mistakes and offer aid. Competitive exams for promotion began. This aimed to boost police efficiency.
Roma Street Police Barracks opened in 1879. It housed 45 men plus an officer and two cells.
The Brisbane City Police has evolved. They have overcome challenges and served with dedication. Their story is a vital part of Brisbane’s history. Next time you see an officer remember this rich past. Remember the dedication to service of Brisbane City Police.