Hundreds of NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers and staff will sharpen their firefighting and emergency response capability at the 24th annual Northern Exercise at Glen Innes Showground this weekend.
More than 330 participants are taking part in the exercise, including 44 crews representing 12 RFS districts across northern NSW, as well as crews from the Queensland RFS.
Deputy Commissioner Field Operations Kyle Stewart APM said the exercise simulates a multi-day emergency deployment under the control of a fully functioning Incident Management Team.
“Members will be tested across the weekend in a range of roles including frontline firefighting, communications, logistics, catering and incident management, all critical to managing large-scale emergencies,” Deputy Commissioner Stewart said.
“Crews will work through 12 operational scenarios reflecting incidents firefighters respond to in their communities, including vehicle fires, LP gas incidents, electric vehicle battery fires and urban interface operations.”
Deputy Commissioner Strategic Capability Peter McKechnie AFSM said the exercise also provides an opportunity for members to train with new technologies and share operational knowledge.
“Exercises like this provide a safe learning environment where volunteers and staff can practice, learn from one another and strengthen their ability to work together during complex incidents,” Deputy Commissioner McKechnie said.
“The weekend also includes an Innovation Expo where crews can engage with emerging technologies and operational tools that support firefighters on the ground, including Mobile Data Terminals and Starlink communications.”
“Events like this show the ongoing commitment members have to each other and their communities. I thank all our volunteers and staff who have planned and coordinated this event, providing valuable opportunities for members to build their capability and better protect our communities.”
Crews will remain based at the Glen Innes Showground throughout the weekend, with the exercise concluding on Sunday afternoon following presentations and a closing ceremony.
Like what you’re reading? Support New England Times by making a small contribution today and help us keep delivering local news paywall-free. Donate now