FOR Senior Constable David Harper, winning the Dux Award for Detective training puts him another step closer to a lifelong dream.

Snr Const Harper was one of 13 police officers to be awarded medals at the Queensland Police South-West Service Awards on Wednesday.

"It was a great honour and something I wasn't expecting, but it's great for everyone that hard work and dedication to be recognised," he said.

"I got the highest mark on my two exams, I was very pleased with my achievements."

Mr Harper said he completed his three-week course at the Oxley Queensland Police Service Academy on assault and drug offences.

"It was a great opportunity to work with different agencies in the police force, and gain valuable experience," he said.

South West District Officer Superintendent Maurice Poiner said the ceremony was an important day for both officers and their families.

"It's a great opportunity to provide formal recognition for the officers," he said.

WINNERS

National Police Service Medals 15 years:

• Det Sergeant Scott Jackson
• Sgt Dion Horn
• Sgt Cian Jacobs
• Sgt Michelle Jackson
• Sergeant Troy Newman
• Sgt William Hickey

National Medal Clasp 1st Clasp

• Snr Sgt Russell McKee

Queensland Police Service Medal

• Snr Const Damien Barrett (10 years)
• Snr Const Tammy O'Connell (15 years)
• Sgt Cian Jacobs (20 years)
• Sgt Dion Horn Station (25 years)
• Snr Const Michael Hewitt (30 years)