An RCMP ceremony rich with colour and tradition in St. John's was different in a significant way Thursday, as the force officially welcomed the first woman to lead its ranks.

"I am privileged to have been chose to command the RCMP in Newfoundland and Labrador," Assistant Commissioner Tracy Hardy said during the ceremony.

Hardy had actually taken command of "B" Division in May from retiring assistant commissioner Bill Smith. The ceremony marked the official changing of the guard.

RCMP Commissioner Bill Paulson, who attended the ceremony, said the history-making decision also involved the provincial government.

"The decision to appoint Tracy to commanding officer wasn't mine alone," he said.

"She was chosen after consultation with the provincial government, a process in keeping with our new policing contract with Newfoundland and Labrador."

Hardy's appointment comes at a significant time, with the RCMP defending itself against lawsuits brought by some of the first women to join the force who allege harassment by male colleagues.

Premier Kathy Dunderdale said the timing of Harry's appointment is right.

"When you have balance you have a better community, you have a better world to live in," Dunderdale said. "And so you have a lot of barriers to break down."

For her part, Hardy focused less on breaking down barriers and more on building bridges.

"There's never been a time in our history when collaboration is so necessary to resolve community issues and problems," she said.