From Maroubra’s surf to the Snowy Mountains’ blizzards, Sergeant Angela Graham’s journey shows how one badge can open two worlds - if you’re willing to take the opportunities.

People who do not live in a regional setting, mostly think of policing as officers patrolling city streets or suburban neighbourhoods.

For Sergeant Graham, 23 years in the NSW Police Force have meant something far broader. Her service has taken her right across NSW.

The most recent and contrasting is from the coastal patrols of Maroubra to the snow-covered ranges of the Snowy Mountains - a journey that showcases the versatility and commitment driving modern policing across NSW.

“One week I’m talking to locals about surf safety or parking near the beach; the next I’m assisting Alpine Search and Rescue locate missing persons, policing anti-social behaviour, or assisting in retrieval of injured skiers from the slopes,” Sergeant Graham said.

The move from Sydney’s eastern beaches to the high country of Monaro isn’t just a change of scenery, it’s a complete shift in priorities.

“On the coast, it’s about crowds, surf conditions, and community events,” she said.

“Up here, it’s road safety, wild weather, and making sure visitors understand just how unpredictable the mountains can be.

“The Snowy Mountains are stunning and lots of fun but it can be unforgiveable.”

Sergeant Graham’s posting was part of Operation Snow Safe, a statewide initiative bringing officers from across NSW together to support the Monaro Police District and alpine policing during the busy winter months.

“It’s a whole-of-force approach,” she said.

“You’ve got general duties, highway patrol, police rescue, all working together with specialists from the SES, NSW Fire and Rescue and NSW Ambulance.

“We conducted over 20 multi-agency search and rescues. There was over 31,000 RBTs, 109 drink drivers and 227 drug driving offences detected, 1400 licenced premises inspections and more than 3131 traffic infringements handed out. Everyone plays their part.”

After more than two decades in the job, leadership comes naturally.

“Whether it’s co-ordinating a busy summer patrol on the coast for missing swimmers in high swells or managing a team through a blizzard, the principles are the same - calm leadership, clear direction, and care for your people,” she said.

Years of managing high-volume incidents in Sydney have proven invaluable in the mountains.

“You learn to think quickly, read people, and adapt to whatever comes your way,” she said.

Her city experience complimented the Monaro Police District’s local knowledge.

“It’s a good mix, coastal instincts meet country know-how,” she said.

“We all bring something different, and that’s what makes operations like this work.”

Behind the scenes, Sergeant Graham also helps co-ordinate logistics, from planning and resourcing, to liaising with agencies like SES Alpine Search and Rescue, NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Ambulance services, NSW Police Rescue Squad and the Monaro Police Districts Alpine Operations Unit.

“It’s the kind of work the public doesn’t see, but it’s what keeps people safe,” she said.

The Snowy Mountains are as unpredictable as they are breathtaking, sunshine one moment, white-out the next.

“Up here, preparation isn’t optional, it’s everything,” Sgt Graham said.

“Visitors sometimes underestimate how quickly the weather can turn. The rules up here aren’t just guidelines, they’re lifesavers.”

From advising drivers on snow chains to helping stranded motorists in sub-zero conditions, her team faces challenges few other officers experience.

“You learn to trust your instincts and your training, because there’s no room for error,” she said.

In August 2025, Sergeant Graham was honoured as Monaro Police District’s Employee of the Month, a testament to her unwavering dedication and outstanding performance during Operation Snow Safe.

This prestigious recognition is reserved for those who consistently go above and beyond, embodying the highest standards of service, teamwork, and professionalism.

“Angela’s leadership, adaptability, and commitment have not only strengthened her team but also left a lasting, positive impact on the entire community,” Superintendent, Toby Lindsay APM Monaro Police District, said.

“Her efforts have been celebrated by district leadership, who commended her for seizing every opportunity and setting a benchmark for excellence in policing.”

Across NSW’s diverse communities, her career reflects what policing truly means: courage, versatility, and a commitment to serve wherever the need arises.

“After 23 years, I’ve learned, the uniform might stay the same, but the environment never does,” she said.

“Whether it’s the roar of the ocean or the quiet of the alpine air, the job’s about people - helping them, protecting them, and being there when it matters most.”

“I love my job and very proud to be serving in the NSW Police Force.”