Exercise ‘Genesis’ puts Local Disaster Management Group through its paces at The Hub as part of annual disaster preparation

Back
Published
9th August 2023

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

Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Mayor Andy Ireland said this year’s exercise was focussed on a bushfire event. With the Bureau continuing to be on El Niño Alert, the spring season may bring reduced rainfall and increased temperatures 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.

“These annual exercises are an invaluable opportunity for all agencies to meet and share vital information, ask questions and learn from one another, so that when a real disaster occurs, we are in a strong position to respond swiftly and effectively.

“Our region has experienced more than its fair share of natural disasters in the past, including cyclone, bushfires, flooding, storms, and drought.

“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. 

“Today’s training also included a test of the bulk SMS service and a switch across to generated power to ensure the building is fully functional at all times.”

Local Disaster Coordinator Greg Abbotts said this year’s activation exercise will bring together around 15 agencies including emergency services, volunteers, and neighbouring Councils, to work collaboratively to ensure the best possible 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 Abbotts 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.

“Residents can also undertake a preparedness check at https://beprepared.livingstone.qld.gov.au/ and produce a plan for their specific individual circumstances.”

Deputy Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Councillor Glenda Mather said 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.

“The exercise is a timely reminder for residents to be as prepared as possible before a natural disaster occurs,” Cr Mather said.

“Council is encouraging all Livingstone residents to take the time now to look at their preparation for the upcoming season.”

There are several key steps residents should follow to ensure they are prepared this summer, storm and cyclone season, which include stocking their emergency kit, cleaning up their yards, and ensuring they have an emergency plan ready to go should disaster strike.

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