70+ tackle eight high-pressure emergency scenarios

In July, a statewide simulation exercise based on a mass-casualty flash flooding event saw more than 70 NSW SES members tackle eight high-pressure emergency scenarios. Requiring the support of around 110 additional SES logistics, transport and rescue exercise specialists, to test the participants’ technical capability, teamwork, leadership and problem solving under pressure, the two-day State Disaster Rescue Challenge saw realistic scenarios including rescuing patients at heights in a transformer station, assisting people experiencing homelessness from a bunker and evacuating occupants from a house.

Ballina Unit in action. Image: Supplied

“Disaster Rescue Challenges have been a highlight on the NSW SES training calendar since 1988 and give members an engaging opportunity to put their rescue knowledge into practice and fine-tune their skills in a friendly yet competitive environment,” NSW SES Chief Superintendent Jake McDonald said. “The complex scenarios reflect the wide range of incidents our volunteers respond to every day, from severe storms and land searches, to delicate rescue operations that demand strong communication and collaboration.”

Port Macquarie Unit in action. Image: Supplied

McDonald added: “Exercises like this are vital in strengthening our operational readiness across the service.” The overall winner that will represent the NSW SES at the National Disaster Rescue Challenge in Queensland later this year was Port Macquarie Hastings Unit, which also earned the safety award. The Parramatta Unit came in second place, followed by the Gosford Unit in third place. The best team leader award was given to George Jeofferys from Parramatta Unit.

Mac and George Jeofferys — Parramatta Unit. Image: Supplied

Top image: Alfred Portenschlager — Port Macquarie Unit. Supplied