Emergency services and port operators were put through their paces as the Port Authority of NSW hosted its annual multi-agency training exercise in Port Kembla today.
The exercise tested first responders and port operators during a simulated scenario at the grain berth in the port precinct.
Port Authority’s Harbour Master Port Kembla & South Coast Sharad Bhasin said the training exercise was successful and included representatives from Port Authority of NSW, NSW Ports, NSW Fire & Rescue, NSW Ambulance, Environment Protection Authority, GrainCorp and Svitzer.
“Today’s training exercise was an excellent example of multiple agencies working together to make sure we are in the very best position to protect people and the environment in the event of an emergency,” said Mr Bhasin.
“Everyone involved is highly trained and will play a critical role if an incident ever occurs. These are front line responders whose collective action are instrumental in a successful incident response."
“This is why it is critical to practise our skills annually by putting all our emergency protocols and procedures into action in a realistic scenario, evaluate the outcomes and address any opportunities to improve."
NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas said the drill demonstrated strong working relationships across the Port Kembla precinct that are pivotal to effective emergency responses.
“Port Kembla is a key economic driver for the Illawarra and NSW – contributing $2.9 billion to the State’s economy each year and supporting about 10,000 jobs,” she said.
“Key to the success of this critical industrial precinct is people and the vital roles each of them play in maintaining the port’s operations that support the people and businesses of NSW each day."
“Emergency simulations are an important way of ensuring the processes in place are fit-for-purpose, practical and effective, to allow for the best possible response in the event of a real emergency.”
For media inquiries, contact:
Brooke.Eggleton@nswports.com.au | 0419 684 953