A former personal trainer from Cairns, new Mount Isa Police Constable Ernst attended a ceremony at the school assembly and presented awards to the students.

Adopt-a-Cops are police officers and police liaison officers that are individually chosen and adopted by their local school.

The adopt-a-cop officers work with their local school community to assist with delivering community and personal safety information.

When asked to be an Adopt-a-Cop, Constable Ernst said it was something she had always wanted to do. 

“I really wanted to give something to others, to put something back and be a part of something bigger than myself.

“It’s important to get to know the younger generation, so they can get to know us in a more positive light when they need our help,” Constable Ernst said.

Mount Isa Central State School also welcomed new officers to its fold earlier this year.

Constable Allan Heldsinger and Police Liaison Officer (PLO) Mark Stanton were officially adopted by the students on January 28.

Both officers addressed the assembly to say they were excited to work closely with the school community throughout the year.

“School is an important part of life. It’s great to be involved, and I hope to make a difference through support and encouragement,” PLO Stanton said.

“I am involved in coaching a local rugby team, so when I was asked to be an adopt-a-cop, I couldn’t say no,” Constable Heldsinger said.