Arabic version: توديع غرانت ستيفنز بعد 44 عاماً في شرطة جنوب أستراليا

According to ABC News, Grant Stevens has formally concluded his tenure as South Australia’s police commissioner after a 44-year career in the force. He was farewelled with a guard of honour outside SA Police Headquarters on Angas Street in Adelaide’s CBD.

Dozens of police officers and well-wishers lined the partially closed street as Stevens was presented with the guard of honour. The outgoing commissioner walked onto a black platform and saluted while the crowd cheered. A small marching band and several horses also paraded outside the headquarters.

Stevens joined the force in January 1982 after deciding at age 17 to enter the police academy. He rose through the ranks before taking the top job in July 2015. His time as commissioner included the Black Summer bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, when he was given extraordinary powers as state coordinator during decisions on lockdowns and restrictions.

His tenure also included the death of his son Charlie, who was struck and killed by a car in a hit-and-run at Schoolies week at Victor Harbor in 2023. Speaking before his final day, Stevens said he and his wife Emma were grateful for public messages of support following their son’s death and his appointment as the state’s next governor.

Stevens will be sworn in as South Australia’s 37th governor on December 9. He said he looked forward to visiting communities and celebrating people’s achievements. He also backed calls for greater civility in public life, saying people with a public profile or platform should express their views responsibly.