Queensland Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski has announced his retirement after serving the Sunshine State for 46 years.
The top cop announced his retirement on Wednesday, almost one year after receiving his devastating stage four cancer diagnosis.
He returned to service last September after treatment for the cancer which spread from his lungs to his bones, liver and brain.
“My diagnosis of cancer was exactly a year ago – I remain on treatment,” the commissioner said, while holding back tears as he thanked the teams of doctors and nurses helping him in his health battle.
“We, as a family, are deeply indebted to what they’ve been able to do … pardon me … they gave me the ability to return as commissioner,” he continued.
“More importantly, to look forward to spending more time with family into the future, which is the key thing.”
Gollschewski joined the police force in 1980, working across organised crime, intelligence, anti-corruption and counterterrorism.
He was officially appointed as the state’s 21st top cop in February 2024, taking over the role after his friend Katarina Carroll retired as police commissioner.
Gollschewski felt that now was the right time to “hand the reins over”.
“Most important is my family, but I believe it’s the right time for the QPS to move to new leadership so they can continue the work we have commenced,” he said.
“I have every confidence in this team to do that.”
Police Minister Dan Purdie has thanked Gollschewski for his work as commissioner, and for his wider service.
“Queensland owes Steve Gollschewski a debt we can probably never repay,” the minister said.
“To do what he’s done with his leadership team while beating cancer is exemplary and I for one, am going to miss him dearly.”
Gollschewski signed off with a message to his frontline officers.
“Irrespective of your role, you’re out there every day keeping our community safe, supporting our workforce, interacting with our community, be it as a sworn officer or a staff member, making a difference for Queensland,” he said.
“Thank you for what you do every day. You’re amazing, you make a huge difference in our community.
“It has been a privilege to be your commissioner.”
Images: Nine News
