Cheryl D’Lima is the newest recruit at Keilor Downs Police. 72258
By Laura Wakely
CONSTABLE Cheryl D’Lima is the new kid on the block at Keilor Downs police station.
The 25-year-old has just finished her 33 weeks of training after starting in February and she couldn’t be more eager to start the job.
Const D’Lima has dreamed of being a policewoman since she was four years old.
After studying psychology at university she entered Victoria Police as an unsworn member, working in human relations and health and safety before biting the bullet to become a sworn officer.
“It’s exciting,” Const D’Lima said of her new role.
“You get to help people. The general public do trust you, you get waves from children when you walk past.”
Brimbank is also an area she has always wanted to work in.
“It’s very multicultural Brimbank, which is good for me because I’m first generation Australian as well, my parents are Pakistani,” she said.
“I’m familiar with the area and on the recruit program I came out three times to Keilor Downs for placement, so I there were a few familiar faces.”
Her training has been intense, with a combination of exercises testing her physical, emotional and mental strengths.
Recruits are given plenty of on-the-job training including a two-week stint with booze buses, driver training and working on the Safe Streets program in the city.
“With Safe Streets, Friday and Saturday nights you’re on foot patrol,” Const D’Lima said.
“We’re thrown in the deep end with that, but you’re never on your own you’re always in a team.
“It’s a little bit challenging – they push you out of your comfort zone.”
Const D’Lima said she has a “lot more to learn” but given her enthusiasm and passion for the Brimbank community, it seems this young recruit is ready for the challenge.
