“When the first Myrtleford police station opened in 1867, the builder celebrated too hard and ended up in the cell,” she said.

“Lets hope that doesn’t happen tonight.”

Ms Nixon was joined by Police Minister Tim Holding to open the $800,000 project.

More than 100 members of the community, including councillors, parliamentary members and association chiefs, gathered at the launch before touring the high-tech station.

Located at the intersection of Queen and Elgin streets, it replaces the old station in Clyde St, built in 1962.

The old station was dilapidated and not suited to modern policing.

Ms Nixon said the station was a huge asset to the Myrtleford community.

“I’d like to thank all the people who fought hard to draw attention to the need for the new police station,” she said.

Mr Holding said the station would enable optimum policing services for the community.

“This terrific station provides a 21st century workplace for up to nine personnel and includes a clear area for breathalyser and fingerprint operations,” he said.

“The fabulous thing about it is that it reflects the local heritage design and fits in with the surrounding streetscape.”

The new station includes an entrance foyer, muster room, interview room, sergeant-in-charge office, property store, male and female change rooms, a holding cell and lock-up garage.

When asked if the North East was likely to get more police officers, Ms Nixon said it was being considered and she would have more details in a month.