Wollongong's top cop can often be seen in the ring with boxing gloves on or on the field throwing a football to kids, not sitting behind a desk.
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That's because Superintendent Chris Craner is passionate about getting out in the community, talking to families and trying to get children involved in programs rather than crime.
His passion for community engagement and helping vulnerable people is just one reason why the policeman of nearly 30 years is being honoured with an Australian Police Medal as part of the Queen's Birthday Honours.
"Community engagement is caring about people," he said. "I'm passionate about my work with kids.
"As part of the Rise Up program, every Wednesday officers do boxing and exercise with kids.
"The program teaches them to make better lifestyle choices.
"I guess I want to look after vulnerable people."
That was shown in 2016 when Supt Craner became Port Stephens Local Area commander.
Through community forums, he raised awareness about domestic violence and police officers helped build the first Domestic Violence Women's Accommodation.
Supt Craner said community engagement was key and police could always improve in that field.
"People will take good news, they will even take bad news but they will not take no news," he said.
Supt Craner has moved through the ranks from general duties, anti-theft squad, managing undercover cops, duty officer, commander and chief of staff to the Commissioner of Police. He worked at several commands around Sydney.
He said was once given a valuable piece of advice that he still listens to.
"I was told to leave a unit every three years no matter how much I love and enjoy it," he said.
"I always take up new opportunities and challenge myself."
The boss wants to be known as someone "who gives a damn about the troops".
"As a commander, I do what I would have wanted my Superintendent to do when I was a constable," Supt Craner said.
"One of my main priorities is staff welfare.
"If my troops are going to come to work and put their lives on the line then I am going to support them."