A packed room of over 50 family and friends were in attendance to celebrate the graduation of 27 men and women who have made the momentous decision to serve the community by becoming correctional officers at Parklea Correctional Centre.
The 16 men and 11 women gave an oath of office at a swearing-in ceremony on 4 July 2025.
Mr Dan Marquardt, MTC President and Mr Scott Marquardt, MTC CEO visiting form the US were honoured to attend, speak to the graduates and provide an address at the ceremony.
Corrective Services NSW Deputy Commissioner Anne Marie Martin and Assistant Commissioner Chantal Snell were also in attendance to congratulate the cadets.
Parklea Governor Brian Gurney said he was pleased to swear in this intake of graduates, meeting MTC’s ongoing commitment to operating a safe, decent and secure facility.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome another graduating class into the Parklea family,” Mr Gurney said.
“Correctional officers provide an important public service by keeping the community safe and helping to reduce reoffending, yet they are often overlooked, as their work is conducted behind prison walls.
“Today enables us to shine a light on the work they do and thank them for choosing a career in corrections.”
Mr Gurney said the 27 graduates were as diverse as the community they will serve, ranging in age from 18 to 51 and coming from different cultural backgrounds.
“Our new graduates previously worked in industries including TV & film production, hospitality, and missionaries, and there’s a former Singapore Police Officer amongst them
“Extensive training is provided through our 10-week Initial Training Course (ITC) and no experience in corrections or a similar field is required,” Mr Gurney said.
“For people who are looking for a challenge, correctional officers work in a unique and dynamic environment where no two days are the same.
“It provides an opportunity to serve the community and make a difference to the lives of the men in our care by employing MTC’s decency and respect principles and BIONIC – Believe it or Not I Care – philosophy.”
Mr Gurney confirmed the NSW Government recently announced Parklea would return to Corrective Services NSW operation from October 2026. The Premier and Corrections Minister indicated Parklea staff will be offered roles with Corrective Services NSW as part of the transition.
MTC’s rigorous 10-week training program covers subjects such as policies and procedures, de-escalation and use of force tactics, mental health and general first aid. Trainees also participate in simulated search and emergency response exercises and weapons training.
Parklea has been operated by MTC on behalf of Corrective Services NSW since 2019.
MTC Australia Media contact: Bonny Gunn 0459 563 531