Former MP back on the beat in school policing program
Senior Constable Marty Hunt and Centre Manager Katie Wild at the Coffee with a Cop event at Nambour Plaza, held every third Thursday from 9am.
Former Nicklin MP Marty Hunt has literally hit the ground running in his new position as School Based Police Officer at Nambour State College.
“I love it,” Senior Constable Hunt said. “It generally involves running programs and building positive relationships between police and the community. It’s aimed at keeping young people out of the criminal justice system and providing a positive role model.”
He said working with young people reminded him of his work at Nambour Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) before he was elected to State Parliament from 2017-2020.
“Being in a position like that allows me to be involved in the community again in a constructive way and allows me to do things like Coffee With a Cop where I engage with the community in an informal setting,” he said.
Nambourians concerned about safety in town will be pleased to hear Sen Const Hunt has made a regular beat part of his routine.
“Every morning and afternoon I’m doing foot patrols of the local community and engaging with businesses and residents in relation to any issues, particularly in relation to any of our students.
“We want to discourage truancy and ensure our students are representing themselves and the school in a positive light in the community.
“Our young people are the future of the community, and we want to instil in them a love and pride in the local area.”
Sen Const Hunt said many students faced difficult situations at home that affected their behaviour.
“And so in my role I can be there to assist and try to make sure every young person has the opportunity to stay on track for a positive outcome in their education.
“It’s a rewarding job. I’ve lived here over 25 years. I love the local community and want to see Nambour thrive.”
Coffee with a Cop at the Plaza
Sen Const Hunt also holds Coffee with a Cop sessions where he is available to chat with the public at Nambour Plaza every third Thursday morning from 9am.
Centre Manager Katie Wild said Nambour Plaza was happy to provide the community with the opportunity to speak with Police in a friendly environment.
“Customers and staff can talk to police about personal safety, home security, road safety issues and other related issues in the community,” she said. “We invite the community to have a Coffee with a Cop where you can ask any questions to your local police, learn crime prevention tips and keep up to date with what’s happening in the local Police division.
“All are welcome – even if you don’t enjoy a coffee, we’ll have tea on hand too! It takes place in the food court.”
About the program
The School Based Policing Program is a joint initiative between the Queensland Police Service and the Queensland Department of Education. The main role of the program is to establish positive relationships between police and the secondary school community, to contribute to a safe and supportive learning environment.
QPS manage the funding, recruitment, selection, training and supervision of SBPOs working in Queensland state schools.
Currently, the SBPP provides 57 state secondary schools with a School Based Police Officer.