Editor's note: Photos from the flood rescue training are available here – https://spaces.hightail.com/space/ZPPkyTtqN5
More than 30 NSW State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers from across Sydney have put their specialist skills to the test during a flood rescue training exercise on the Nepean River over the weekend.
Flood rescue operators converged at Jamisontown on Saturday, 26 September to practice boat operations and strengthen the skills and coordination needed during real-life flood emergencies.
The training tested a range of practical skills including improvised launching, recovery of rescue boats, casualty management, high speed maneuvers and familiarisation of the new Light Flood Rescue Vehicle.
Members worked through simulated flood rescue scenarios, putting their decision-making, communication and technical skills to the test in a controlled environment.
NSW SES volunteers have responded to more than 160 flood rescues across the state this year, highlighting the importance of regularly training for complex and potentially dangerous incidents.
NSW SES Acting Zone Commander Daniel Kenner said the training was an opportunity for members to practise, learn and refine the specialist skills they need to save lives in floodwater.
“By bringing together volunteers from across the Metro Zone, it also strengthens the teamwork and coordination we rely on when responding to larger flood operations,” Acting Chief Superintendent Kenner said.
With the Nepean River located in one of Australia’s largest unmitigated flood risk areas, Acting Chief Superintendent Kenner said it’s an ideal training spot to build familiarity of the environment.
“The environment of the training exercise also mirrors the natural hazards that our volunteers face in real life flood emergencies,” he said.
“During periods of settled conditions, we can safely practise complex rescue scenarios here, ensuring our teams are prepared to respond quickly and effectively when the community needs us most.”
The training brought together NSW SES volunteers from Bankstown, Canterbury, City of Sydney, Cronulla, Hunters Hill, Hurstville, Kogarah, Liverpool, Marrickville, Mosman, Parramatta, Penrith, Randwick, Ryde, Sutherland, The Hills, Warringah Pittwater and Waverley Woollahra Units.
To further strengthen capability, 15 NSW SES members took part in High Clearance Vehicle currency training at Hawkesbury on Saturday, practising how to safely and effectively operate the specialist flood rescue asset.
Media enquiries: NSW SES Media on 1800 067 234 or media@ses.nsw.gov.au.