Ex-police sergeant now volunteers with people she once arrested
Retired NSW Police sergeant Deb Rowe has won Hunter Volunteer of the Year for her community work.
Rowe spent 36 years in the police force. In April 2000, she was the only female sergeant in general duties in the Hunter.
She retired in 2018 and joined LIVEfree Project, Australian Red Cross, and Hunter Restorative Community. She sits on the board of Kwila Community Based Rehab.
Rowe serves breakfast at community programs in Hamilton South. She helps transport young people to school.
She supports people struggling with addiction. She works to rebuild trust between residents and police.
One week after devastating floods hit Lismore, Rowe worked in recovery and evacuation centres. Her Christian faith changed her focus.
She shifted from finding crime to supporting people. Her work has opened her eyes to hard issues beyond policing.
- 36 years
- Years in police
- 2018
- Year of retirement
- April 2000, Hunter general duties
- Only female sergeant
- Hunter Volunteer of the Year 2026
- Recognition
Why it mattersPolice experience can lead to deeper community healing and trust-building work that goes beyond what law enforcement usually does.
AustraliaRowe's approach models a bridge between police and vulnerable communities in NSW, addressing barriers between housing-insecure residents and law enforcement through volunteer support.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
