Overview
This oral history interview, recorded in 2025, documents the 42 year policing career of Mal Scott, with a particular focus on his 27 years serving the community of Cooroy, Queensland. Scott reflects on his upbringing in Dalby and Toowoomba, his early admiration for police, and his entry into the Queensland Police Service at age 18. After postings across the state—including Longreach and Caloundra—he sought a small town environment aligned with his community focused ethos, leading to his transfer to Cooroy in 1997.
Scott describes Cooroy’s evolution from a quiet rural township to a busier, rapidly developing community. Central to his approach was proactive, community driven policing, building strong relationships with residents, businesses, local schools, and service organisations. His initiatives included the business alert chart system, the long running Blue Light Discos, and collaboration with the Cooroy Chamber of Commerce to secure funding for CCTV infrastructure.
Scott recounts both confronting and rewarding experiences, from managing major crime and fatal accidents to mentoring at-risk youth and receiving overwhelming community support after being injured during an attempted arrest. He attributes his longevity and effectiveness to empathy, fairness, and deep local engagement. Despite opportunities for promotion, Scott chose to remain in Cooroy, valuing its people, sense of community, and strong partnerships that shaped his career and life.
