Russell McArthur will soon return to Coonabarabran for a second stint after spending a five years here as sergeant.

Inspector McArthur will take on the top job as Officer in Charge for the northern sector of the Orana Mid- Western area, left vacant by Dave Maher at the beginning of the year.

The role encapsulates Warrumbungle, Coonamble and Gilgandra shire areas.

Originally from Grafton, Insp. McArthur has spent time in Parkes, Nelson Bay and Walgett to name a few, but said he was looking forward to moving back to Coonabarabran.

He will return with his young family after only relocating to Dubbo in November last year.

“I moved to Dubbo for more opportunity, but then this job came up here a couple of months later,” Insp. McArthur said.

“The people (in Coonabarabran) are really friendly - it’s a really good community and a good place to raise a family.”

While Insp. McArthur has big shoes to fill from his predecessor, he said he wasn’t concerned with making his mark immediately.

He said Insp. Maher had left a strong business plan to follow.

“I’m not going to change much at all in the way things are run, I’m going to continue to engage with the community members,” Insp. McArthur said.

“Dave Maher was a very community-orientated bloke. “I worked with him for five years so I know the programs and strategies he had in place.”

Insp. McArthur will officially begin the role at the beginning of May, but will be acting in the position until then.

In further good news, following the official appointment of Insp. McArthur, a new sergeant will also take up residence in Coonabarabran, giving the area a full contingent of officers.