Crime and Corruption post for Ipswich cop

RESPECTED Ipswich police officer David Preston will continue to enjoy the benefits of living in Ipswich while devoting his working hours to furthering his career in Brisbane.

RESPECTED Ipswich police officer Inspector David Preston will continue to enjoy the benefits of living in Ipswich while devoting his working hours to furthering his career in Brisbane.

The experienced Ipswich-raised cop celebrated his final day with workmates at Yamanto police station last Friday before moving up to a new role with the Crime and Corruption Commission in Fortitude Valley.

As Detective Inspector Preston, he will be in charge of a team conducting investigations into local government and official corruption investigations.

With 32 years in the service under his belt, Insp Preston said he was keen to broaden his skills as he looks ahead to what will be his final 10 years in the service.

"It's something that I hope will make me a better police officer," he said.

"By the time I finish with QPS I will have been with them for 43 years.

"I have done five or six different jobs during that time but always been with the same employer.

"I will continue to live in Ipswich and continue to be a part of the community."

Insp Preston's ties with Ipswich go way back.

He went straight into the academy at Oxley after graduating from Ipswich State High at 17 years.

His first posting was at the Sunshine Coast, before doing his country stint in Cunnamulla.

He arrived back in his home town of Ipswich seven years ago and played a key role in the disaster management response during the 2011 floods - an experience he rated as one of his best over the last decade.

Superintendent Charysse Pond said Insp Preston's leadership qualities would be missed.

"He made a significant contribution through his leadership during the floods," she said.

"He also played an active role in the Tactical Operations Group which helped reduce property crime across Ipswich."

Insp Preston hasn't ruled out a return to the Ipswich police ranks some time in the future.

"It has been great working with all the people with all their expertice - to sit and watch them do their work while still being in control of it," he said.

"I want to thank the Ipswich community for allowing me to do my job. Without their support I certainly wouldn't be able to do my job.

"I want to thank all the frontline police in Ipswich too."