AFAC, the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council, indeed plays a crucial role in bringing together emergency service personnel, equipment suppliers, and experts to exchange knowledge and showcase the latest advancements in the field.
President Greg Cook, Secretary Allen Gale and Treasurer Robbie Palmer attended AFAC23 in Brisbane. This year’s theme was “Creating a sustainable future: the challenges and opportunities. Some of the key points of interest included:
- Technological Advancements: Advancements in AI, data analytics, and communication tools can enhance disaster response and recovery, but they also introduce new vulnerabilities and require up-to-date training and infrastructure.
- Indigenous Knowledge and Values: First Nations values and knowledge should be incorporated into emergency management strategies.
- Community-Centred Approach: The well-being of people should be at the forefront of emergency management efforts.
- Collaboration and Responsibility: Collaboration among governments, communities, and organisations is vital in addressing these challenges.
The equipment expo once again highlighted the importance of innovation and preparedness, underscoring the significance of collaboration and innovation within the emergency services community:
- Cutting-Edge Equipment: The availability of state-of-the-art equipment like stretchers, vertical rescue gear, and rescue vehicles demonstrates the commitment. f emergency services to ensure the safety of both responders and the individuals they rescue.
- PPE Advancements: The presence of a wide range of personal protective equipment (PPE) is a testament to the continuous development of gear that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
- Industry Innovation: This is essential to saving lives and minimizing damage during crises. The commitment to exploring new technologies and equipment is a testament to the dedication of those working in emergency services.
- Adaptability to Local Conditions: Specialised equipment designed for conditions such as those experienced on Bluff Knoll in the Stirling Ranges highlights the importance of tailoring resources to local needs.
AFAC23 focused on the urgent need to adapt emergency management strategies to address the compounding and complex disasters facing the Pacific Region while also considering the global shift toward sustainability and the role of technology, infrastructure, indigenous knowledge, and community engagement in shaping a safer and more resilient future.
SESVA Treasurer, Robbie Palmer delved into the vast array of equipment and PPE on display including the latest stretchers and vertical rescue gear along with Rescue Trucks, Utes, flood boats and swift water rescue equipment—all designed to function optimally in the most challenging conditions, while still protecting the Rescuer.
The latest PPE covered general type overalls to Alpine weather clothing designed for laying down during operations in conditions that our own SES in WA, regularly experience in and around Bluff Knoll, in the Stirling Ranges.
It was impressive and reassuring to discover there are solutions to every possible situation for emergencies.
If you’d like to chat with Robbie about equipment on display at AFAC please call after hours on 0409 978 934 or email him: sesva.treasurer@ses-wa.asn.au
