Exercise Tarsier brought together SES members from across the Illawarra, who were supported by the NSW SES Bush Search and Rescue Unit, across two weekends for coordinated search operations near Picton Road.
The large-scale exercise focused on improving coordination between agencies, strengthening search methods and testing new mapping and communication systems used during land searches.
Acting South Eastern Zone Commander, Chief Superintendent Matthew Price said the training exercise plays a critical role in ensuring volunteers remain ready to support NSW Police during complex search operations.
"Land searches often involve large areas of difficult terrain and require strong coordination between multiple agencies," Chief Superintendent Price said.
"The NSW SES is called to support NSW Police during search and rescue operations, so training like this ensures our volunteers are prepared to search challenging environments and support police in missing person investigations."
The exercise drew on realistic missing persons scenarios being managed by NSW Police to simulate a real search and rescue tasking.
Bush Search and Rescue Unit Commander Paul Campbell-Allen said the exercise provided a valuable opportunity to practise the systems and technology used during modern search operations.
"Search operations rely on accurate mapping, clear communication and disciplined search techniques to systematically cover large areas," Inspector Campbell-Allen said.
"Exercises like this allow teams to test those systems in the field so we can continue refining how agencies work together during complex searches."
During the exercise, teams navigated open and rugged terrain while using shared command structures, radio channels and digital mapping systems to search designated areas.
NSW SES volunteers play a key role in land search operations across the state, providing trained personnel who can search remote and challenging environments to help bring missing people home safely.
