Historic Mirani Police Station Stands Guard as Nearby Communities Face Long-Term Officer Shortages

Nestled on the main street of Queensland’s Pioneer Valley, the century-old Mirani Police Station has stood as a silent witness to the town’s history since 1896. Its weathered yellow weatherboard façade and small front verandah overlook the bustling road, a symbol of the community’s long-standing presence.

For 27 years, former senior constable Fred Baguley served as the officer-in-charge, managing school excursions and responding to fatal traffic accidents. “I was always told the community needs a good copper, good school principals, and a good publican,” he reflected. Mirani has notably avoided a long-term police vacancy, but nearby communities like Farleigh and Seaforth, outside Mackay, are increasingly concerned about the future of local policing.

Both towns have gone over a year without a permanently stationed officer. Farleigh’s last full-time officer left in November 2023. The small community of around 800 residents relies on Tony Muscatt, who operates a local workshop, and nearby officers based at Mackay’s Northern Beaches Police Station, just a 15-minute drive away.

“Having a local copper just down the road is very handy for us,” Muscatt said. While Farleigh doesn’t face significant trouble, residents find comfort in knowing that police are nearby, even if they’re not stationed directly in town. As rural and regional areas grapple with officer shortages, the sense of security and community connection remains a concern for many.