As the first-ever female police chief to be sworn in in the Victoria Police Department's 167 years, Fiona Wilson did not take the moment for granted.

"That milestone matters, because representation matters," Wilson said in her eloquent and articulate speech, calling the occasion "long overdue".

Not only does it matter to the young girls who can see policing as a path open to them and to communities who expect institutions to be inclusive, she added. "It matters to all of our members who want to see leadership reflect the diversity and strength of those we serve.

"I am not here because I am a woman. I am here despite being a woman, and that is both a celebration and a challenge, and I hold both truths as I take on this position."

Wilson, who officially took the reins from Del Manak at a

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