The simulation of a major fire impacting the Noosa shire was the focus of Exercise Dunkirk Connect - the annual multi-agency exercise to test the capability and response of the Local Disaster Coordination Centre.
Noosa's emergency services, government agencies, utility providers and community organisations worked together to manage community safety, share information, coordinate resources and support residents during both the response and recovery phases.
Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie said exercises like Dunkirk Connect are essential to ensuring agencies are ready to respond when emergencies occur.
"We saw an actual event similar to this scenario in 2019, so these exercises help ensure our agencies are prepared to respond quickly and effectively when they do," Mayor Wilkie said.
"Testing our disaster arrangements in a local fire scenario gives us valuable opportunities to strengthen coordination, identify improvements and deliver better outcomes for our community."
Disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility, and strong partnerships are critical during emergency response and recovery efforts.
Local Disaster Coordinator Shaun Walsh said the exercise helped build confidence and capability across participating organisations.
"The value of these exercises lies in the collaboration they create between agencies. By testing our systems, processes and communication channels in a controlled environment, we can continue to improve our readiness and enhance outcomes for our community," Mr Walsh said.
Exercise Dunkirk Connect forms part of the Local Disaster Management Group's ongoing commitment to maintaining a high level of preparedness and ensuring coordinated, efficient responses to potential disaster events.
A second exercise focused on recovery will be conducted next week.
Together, the response and recovery exercises provide an opportunity for agencies to test local disaster management arrangements across all phases of a disaster, ensuring the community is supported from the initial emergency response through to long-term recovery.
"It's wonderful to see the agencies and officers show such commitment, professionalism and dedication towards making Exercise Dunkirk Connect a successful and valuable exercise," Mr Walsh said.
