A Cootamundra policeman who spent time in Young is leaving the NSW Police Force after 17 years.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Gary Doohan will hang up his uniform for the last time in the coming weeks. Mr Doohan graduated from the Goulburn Academy in 2002.
He then spent time in Green Valley, Fairfield, Wetherill Park and Macquarie Fields before moving to Harden in 2010.
He split his time between Harden, Young and Cootamundra for many years before settling in the Cootamundra Highway Patrol in 2016.
READ ALSO: Entries in for art exhibition
"I have spent time between Harden, Young and Cootamundra, but settled into the Cootamundra Highway Patrol in 2016." Mr Doohan said.
"There is a huge difference between service in the city and the country. The country is a much more relaxed pace, and you have a much more personal experience.
"The downside of that is, of course, that you also might have the misfortune to attend an accident where you know the deceased or their family. That can be a horrible experience."
During his career, Mr Doohan has received several commendations, including a Commander Commendation from his time in the Drug Unit; a Regional Commander's Award; a nomination for Police Officer of the Year from Rotary in 2009 and a Commander's Merit Certificate for performing CPR on someone in custody.
"In the country, there is still an opportunity to build rapport with people, as long as you treat them the way you want to be treated, there is always a chance to help." Mr Doohan said.
"At the Wombat Bike Rally, a guy covered in tattoos, came up to me and shook my hand, thanking me for saving his life.
"Being in the police force can be a thankless job, but when someone stops you in the street to thank you for the difference you have made in their life, makes it all worthwhile."
