The NSW Police Force has just welcomed its most charismatic new recruit, and it’s not your typical officer in blue. Meet Sergeant Jim, a specially wrapped Suzuki Jimny GLX Auto 4×4, now proudly serving in the Lake Macquarie Police District Crime Prevention Unit.
While Sergeant Jim may not be chasing down criminals at high speed, it’s here to do something just as important: start conversations, build trust, and engage with the community.
A cult favourite with a badge
Donated by Suzuki Australia at zero cost to taxpayers, Sergeant Jim isn’t just a regular Jimny; it’s fully decked out in fluorescent NSW Police livery and ready to hit the road (and off-road) to help connect officers with locals, especially during school visits, fairs, and local community events.
Under the bonnet, this pint-sized off-roader packs a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine making 75kW and 130Nm, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and a part-time 4WD system — the same setup beloved by adventurers across Australia. While it’s not fitted with pursuit gear or radars (yet), it makes up for it with personality and presence.
Why Lake Macquarie?
The Lake Macquarie Police District covers a vast 648km² stretch of the NSW Central Coast and serves a rapidly growing population of over 221,000 residents, projected to swell to around 250,000 by 2036. With 95 communities and nine town centres in its jurisdiction, engaging with such a diverse and growing population requires more than just patrols — it calls for approachable, innovative solutions.
That’s where Sergeant Jim comes in.
“Sergeant Jim is more than just a vehicle – it’s a conversation starter,” said Michael Pachota, General Manager of Suzuki Australia. “In times when national crime rates are a topic of discussion, we saw an opportunity to contribute positively at a local level.”
Enhancing police visibility and public connection
According to Superintendent Tracy Chapman APM, Lake Macquarie Police District Commander, the Jimny will play a vital role in breaking the ice at local events.
“Sergeant Jim’s livery will hopefully be a great conversation starter while on display and get more people, especially younger people, comfortable with approaching their local police,” Superintendent Chapman explained.
The initiative is part of a broader shift in community policing — one that prioritises visibility, approachability, and local relationships. The Suzuki Jimny, with its unique blend of quirky design and serious off-road credibility, is the perfect fit.
Suzuki’s continued focus on community engagement
This isn’t Suzuki’s first foray into fostering community spirit. Across Australia, Suzuki owners frequently organise Jimny meetups, with some gatherings drawing over 200 vehicles. The brand’s focus on connection, inclusion, and fun is clearly aligned with the values of community-based policing.
While Sergeant Jim is currently assigned to Lake Macquarie, don’t expect to see him patrolling the beaches of Bondi anytime soon. For now, its mission is local and deeply meaningful.
The takeaways
In a world where police-community relationships are more important than ever, Sergeant Jim is a creative and approachable ambassador for the NSW Police Force. Thanks to Suzuki Australia’s generous donation, it’s helping foster positive engagement, safer communities, and stronger local connections — one school visit at a time.
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