Volunteers and professional rescue crews train for emergency coastal exercise

Emergency services volunteers and professional agencies teamed up this month for a significant training exercise preparing for the next disaster off our coast. The exercise was good preparation for real-life drama which unfolded the next day, on Sunday, October 16, when rescue teams went into action to extract a hang-glider who sustained serious injuries near Boranup beach. Marine Rescue Margaret River, Margaret River State Emergency Service, local police, firefighters and St John Ambulance volunteers took part in the October 15 training exercise as part of regular steps to stay sharp and check emergency communications were up to par. Margaret River police officer-in-charge Simone Taplin told the Times the marine rescue sparked the idea which focused on a maritime rescue scenario. “Everyone was keen to see how each unit works and their capabilities,” Sergeant Taplin said. “A full incident management team was run from the SES building. “The incident was an overdue vessel with six people on board.” In the scenario, State water police provided real-time search patterns for Marine Rescue to go into action, which then followed a land search led by SES supported by fire and rescue volunteers backed up by ambulance crews. “These exercises are not a stretch from what could go wrong,” Sgt Taplin said. “The following day SJA, Fire and Rescue, SES and Margaret River Police all worked together to safely extract a gentleman who had crashed his hang glider in Boranup. “This exercise was a great example of the solid group of volunteers in the town who give up their own time to protect their community,” she said. “The commitment shown by all agencies on the day was outstanding and it has only brought out units closer together.” Marine Rescue commander Lucie Barthe said 66 people took part, most of whom were volunteers. The use of drones also showed how crucial that technology had become in rescue situations. “These exercises let our emergency services practice their skills so that we are ready for the real incident,” she said. “It’s fantastic to see all the services working together and getting a better understanding of each other’s capabilities and building the relationships between agencies.” Ms Barthe urged interested residents to get involved. Combined emergency services crews will be at the Margaret River and Districts Agricultural Show on November 4 and 5 with information on how to sign up.