Trailblazing officer recognised

One of the State's first female police officers was among 37 who have been honoured with the National Police Service Medal in Bunbury.

Police from around the State gathered at Bunbury City Council chambers on Tuesday for a ceremony honouring the medallists, which included 18 retired and 17 serving officers from the South West. The medal, established in 2010, recognises the special status sworn police officers have in protecting the community.

Retired First Class Sgt Margaret Carlson was among the honoured and South West Supt Mick Sutherland commended Mrs Carlson as one of the first woman officers to "break ground and make history" in Western Australia.

Mrs Carlson joined the force in 1970 and was one of 37 women officers at the time.

Mrs Carlson told the _South Western Times _she had witnessed the police force evolve from when women officers had to leave the force once they married.

She was part of a team in an office of only women who worked mainly with women and children.

"It was an interesting time then, there was a lot of comararderie and everyone worked well together," Mrs Carlson said.

She said she was honoured to be awarded the medal.

"I'm really honoured because it recognises your service to the community, in particular in the force," she said.

Mrs Carlson was also honoured alongside her husband of 30 years Tom Carlson, who is a retired WA Police commander and spent time as a regional officer in Bunbury for three years.

Mr Carlson said he was very grateful for the award.

"Sometimes you wonder if it's all worth it, but something like this makes you realise it was," he said.