Local Disaster Co-ordination Centre at The Hub gets prepared for summer season with annual activation exercise

The Hub was transitioned into activation mode today as part of an annual training exercise for agencies and Council staff to ensure preparedness as our region moves into storm and cyclone season. 

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Mayor Andy Ireland said although Council was conducting a bushfire activation exercise this year, it was important to note that this summer season is forecast as a La Niña, which typically means increased rainfall across much of Australia.

“The training forms part of Council’s Local Disaster Management plan where the LDMG puts itself through the paces with an activation exercise of the Local Disaster Co-ordination Centre in The Hub, to ensure all agencies are prepared for the season and to familiarise themselves with the state-of -the-art facility,” Mayor Ireland said. 

“Our region has experienced more than its fair share of natural disasters in recent years and yesterday marked the one year anniversary following the unprecedented wildfires that swept through several localities in Livingstone in 2019. 

“So it’s very important to ensure Council staff, local emergency services and agencies are given the opportunity to sharpen their training skills and response capabilities. 

“The exercise also provided an opportunity to reflect on the lessons learnt from weather events like the Cobraball bushfires or ex-Tropical Cyclone Marcia and share that across multiple agencies to streamline future operations. 

“Today’s training also included a complete lockdown of the building with the lowering of the cyclone shutters and a video conference with the State Government. The building also switched across to generated power to ensure its fully functional at all times.”

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Assistant Commissioner, Darryl King said these annual exercises were a great opportunity to work closely with other agencies and Council to ensure effective communications and familiarisation with working in response to a disaster. 

“Queensland weather can fluctuate significantly, which is why residents should never underestimate the severity of storms and bushfires and the damage they can cause,” Mr King said.

“Natural disasters including flooding, rain, tropical cyclones and bushfires are an annual occurrence in our region and it’s essential that residents understand the risks in order to take the necessary steps to reduce the impact of a natural disaster on their wellbeing, home, family, finances, and business.”

Deputy Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Councillor Glenda Mather said the exercise was a timely reminder for residents to be as prepared as possible before a natural disaster occurs.

“The best way to minimise the disruption to you and your family’s lives, is to first understand your risk to natural disasters, look at the big picture and identify the scenarios you need to consider, and make a plan,” Cr Mather said. 

“Council is encouraging all Livingstone residents to take the time now to look at their preparation for the upcoming season. The community is also being invited to attend the Get Ready Day in Beaman Park on Sunday, 29 November from 9am to 1pm – to get help with your ‘what-if’ plan or to learn more about coastal hazards, and gain advice from our emergency services and Council Disaster Management on other hazards and risks.” 

Livingstone Shire Local Disaster Co-ordinator David Mazzaferri added there are several key steps residents should follow to ensure they’re prepared this summer, storm and cyclone season which include stocking their emergency kit, cleaning up their yards and making sure they have an emergency plan ready to go should disaster strike.

For more information, go to https://disaster.livingstone.qld.gov.au/