More than 30 Marine Rescue NSW volunteers (State Operations Group), staff and NSW SES members have enhanced their flood rescue and support skills during a capability exercise on the Corindi River at Red Rock.
Marine Rescue NSW Capability Manager, Dave Bowing, said participants were given a comprehensive briefing before getting on the water.
“The exercise simulated an east coast low weather system impacting the Mid North Coast.
“Participants undertook tasks ranging from basic resupply operations to rescuing persons from the water,” he said.
Marine Rescue NSW developed a State Operations Group following the 2022 Independent Flood Inquiry and has since built capability to support the NSW Government’s response during weather emergencies.
Bowing said the Red Rock exercise provided a vital opportunity for Marine Rescue NSW and NSW SES to train together ahead of real-life deployments anywhere in the state.
“The exercise went very well.
“We were very pleased with the inter-agency cooperation demonstrated and the lessons learned.
“All tasks were carried out professionally and with a high level of skill,” he said.
Volunteers from the Marine Rescue Crowdy Harrington, Port Macquarie, Nambucca, Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga, Ballina and Point Danger units took part in the exercise to test their operational readiness.
“The State Operations Group is made up of existing Marine Rescue NSW members who have developed additional skillsets.
“Marine Rescue NSW encourages anyone interested in boating safety and saving lives on the water to visit our website: www.marinerescuensw.com.au,” Bowing said.
Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said the organisation is actively recruiting volunteers, including in inland locations.
“We’re always looking for new volunteers, particularly in the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast – two of our busiest regions.
“There are a number of regional centres like Lismore, Grafton, Kempsey and Taree, where people can join our coastal units.
“All of our volunteers receive full, free training and equipment to help them save lives on the water.
“If you’re thinking about joining Marine Rescue NSW, there’s no better time,” Commissioner Barrell said.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.
