Queensland will see its first female motorcycle cops hitting the road, as the police force celebrates a major milestone. Senior Constables Rozanna Henriksen and Linda Tajnai were among five officers who passed the force’s rigorous motorcycle training course. Officers must be able to handle motorbikes weighing more than 300 kilograms and three failed the most recent test. Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said it was a very demanding course.

‘The size of our standard motorcycles is an issue for some of the people who participate, both men and women,’ he said.

‘This is the first time that a female has successfully completed it.’

Police Minister Jo‐Ann Miller said the last time a female officer did the course was in the 1970s and she had to pull out when she discovered she was pregnant. Senior Constable Henriksen said she had been determined to get through the gruelling three‐week course.

‘Giving up was not an option for me and it is a very proud moment — I’m excited to get out on the road,’ she said.

Mr Stewart said no special concessions were made for the female senior constables.

‘It just shows that gender diversity is alive and well in our organisation and it’s supported, but we will never drop our standards,’ he said.

‘They have met the standards and gone over and above and I wish them well in the future to ensure that our roads are safe.’

QUESTION

If Queensland female motorcycle cops were given smaller and lighter motorcycles than their male counterparts could they be accused of being weaker and softer? Do you think they would therefore be treated with less respect than they deserve?