In late 1991 Mr. Kerry Lawrence of Reynella approached members of the Community Services Branch of the South Australia Police (SAPOL) with the concept of establishing a training programme involving police and youth. Following discussions with Mr. Lawrence, the former Commissioner of Police (Mr. Hunt) approved a twelve-month pilot program for the police youth training scheme, commencing in March 1992.

The Pilot group was known as the South Australia Police Department Rangers. The first Unit was established at Christies Beach, located at Morphett Vale High School.

Funding and recruiting activities for the Rangers was conducted through local Councils, Community groups and the wider community.

The Ranger organisation was managed by a council of four civilian members, together with Mr. Lawrence as the Ranger Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner McKenzie as the Police Commissioner's Representative and a Police Contact Officer from SAPOL Community Services Branch. Assistance was also sought from interested police, community and private groups in relation to the development of the Ranger Training Programme.

The South Australia Police Rangers (as it is now known) has developed into as organisation of five metropolitan and one country unit, as well as a Ranger Band:-

• Christies Beach Unit
• Sturt Unit
• Port Adelaide Unit
• Holden Hill Unit
• Salisbury Unit
• Barossa Unit
• Band Unit

The management of the organisation has also changed and is now known as the State Council, comprising (in addition) all Unit Commanders, and a State Council Administration.

The structure and curriculum for the Rangers is carefully monitored to ensure that practice and procedures taught are current.

The inspiration of Mr. Lawrence in 1991 has lead to today's program, which provides an insight for young people as to the role of police in our Community.