The Rockhampton Region Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) have been putting themselves to the test, taking part in a disaster scenario aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness and the region's response capabilities.
The exercise brought together key agencies, including Queensland Police Service, State Emergency Service (SES), Queensland Ambulance Service and Rockhampton Regional Council, who worked through a realistic disaster scenario.
Designed to test existing plans, communication processes and decision-making arrangements, the exercise gave agencies the opportunity to identify strengths, address gaps and enhance coordination before a real emergency occurs.
Local Disaster Management Group members simulated the response to a developing disaster event, where agencies worked together to manage impacts on the community while ensuring critical services and resources were effectively coordinated.
Quotes attributable to LDMG Chair and Mayor Tony Williams:
"Preparation is one of the most important tools we have when it comes to protecting our community during emergencies.
"This exercise allows our agencies to put plans into practice, test their response and make sure we are ready to work together when our community needs us most.
"The Rockhampton Region faces a range of natural hazards, and exercises such as this help build confidence that we can respond quickly, effectively and in a coordinated way."
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Regional Council Disaster Coordinator Claudine Cassar:
"Emergency exercises are critical for testing how our plans, systems and people perform in a realistic environment.
"These activities help strengthen relationships between agencies, improve communication and identify opportunities to enhance our disaster response arrangements.
"By regularly training and exercising together, we can ensure we are as prepared as possible to support the community before, during and after a disaster event."
