Major Training Projects Underway for SES Volunteers
Update provided by David MacLean, District Officer TDSC SES and Marine Rescue.
Significant work is underway to modernise and strengthen several key SES training programs, with three major training projects currently being developed by dedicated Project Advisory Teams (PATs).
Communications Training Review
A comprehensive review of SES communications training is now underway. The project will examine everything from Basic WAERN through to Net Control Station qualifications, with a focus on ensuring communications practices remain safe, effective and fit for purpose during operational responses.
Land Search Team Member Course Refresh
Work is also progressing on a redesigned Land Search Team Member course. The aim is to create a flexible training product that supports both trainer-led delivery and self-paced learning. While no new content is being added, the revised format will make training more accessible and easier to deliver across the State. Once a draft product is available, volunteers and trainers will be invited to assist with testing and refinement.
Flood Boat Operator Course Changes
The Flood Boat Operator course is also undergoing substantial redevelopment to align with Exemption 24 requirements. PAT members are currently reviewing national standards to ensure the updated course meets contemporary operational
and compliance expectations.
Looking Ahead
All three projects represent significant pieces of work and demonstrate the ongoing commitment to providing volunteers with modern, practical and effective training that supports safe and efficient operations.
General Rescue Training Gets a Refresh
A number of updates have been made to the General Rescue Training Package, helping ensure our training remains aligned with current operational practices, recent Incident Investigation Reports (IIRs), and updated nail gun safety requirements.
What’s New?
• Updated guidance on the approved Makita Battery Operated Nail Gun, including strengthened safety requirements.
• Removal of the Paslode nail gun from training materials following the transition to Makita battery-operated units.
• Improved rescue training content, including updates to stretcher loading procedures and rescue terminology.
• Additional safety messaging covering nail gun use and correct reeving of the D4 descender.
• Refined assessment resources with clearer instructions and improved practical assessment guidance.
• New theory content covering mass calculations and the relationship between BGR, GR and USAR capabilities.
Available Now
The updated Trainer, Student and Assessment Resources are now available in the Trainer Assessor Resources section
of eAcademy.
If you’re involved in General Rescue training or assessment, now is a great time to review the updated materials and
ensure your local training reflects the latest requirements.
For further information, send an email to David.Maclean@dfes.wa.gov.au