The NSW Police Officer of the Year awards are being held tonight.

33 of our best and brightest men and women in blue have been nominated as finalists for their work.

Ben Fordham has singled out a few of the officers at random, speaking to them ahead of the big night.

Senior Sergeant Lisa Westwood leads Wollongong’s Crime Prevention Unit and is being recognised for her efforts in keeping young people out of trouble.

She tells Ben she’s “always wanted to be a police officer”.

“I’ve been here for 26 years and I still want to be.”

Click PLAY below to hear from Senior Sergeant Lisa Westwood

Ben has also spoken to Sergeant Gregory Moon, who is a finalist in the Specialist Support category.

Click PLAY below to hear from Sergeant Gregory Moon