Queensland Police Service officers gathered at Bundaberg Station on Nov. 13 to farewell Chief Inspector Grant Marcus, who is retiring after 38 years with the service. Marcus has led the Bundaberg Patrol Group and settled in the region nearly three decades ago.

Marcus joined the police academy at age 21, fulfilling a childhood ambition to become an officer. During his career, he responded to fatal crashes, natural disasters and other major incidents, citing the 2013 Bundaberg floods and subsequent tornadoes as among his most memorable experiences.

Reflecting on his retirement, Marcus said he felt both sadness and excitement as he prepared to leave a profession that had become a major part of his identity. He also encouraged people considering policing to pursue the career, describing it as challenging, rewarding and grounded in community service.

After retiring, Marcus plans to spend more time with his family, travel, including a planned trip to Western Australia, and play pickleball. His departure follows nearly four decades of service with the Queensland Police Service.