Marine Rescue NSW trains for flood readiness on North Coast

VOLUNTEERS from Marine Rescue’s Ballina and Point Danger units have taken part in a major flood readiness exercise on the Corindi River at Red Rock.

More than 30 Marine Rescue NSW and NSW SES members joined the training, which simulated an east coast low impacting the Mid North Coast.

Marine Rescue NSW capability manager Dave Bowing said the volunteers tackled a range of tasks during the on-water scenario.

“Participants undertook tasks ranging from basic resupply operations to rescuing persons from the water,” he said.

“We were very pleased with the inter-agency cooperation demonstrated and the lessons learned.”

The training included volunteers from Crowdy Harrington, Port Macquarie, Nambucca, Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, alongside those from Ballina and Point Danger.

The State Operations Group was formed after the 2022 Independent Flood Inquiry to support emergency services during extreme weather events.

“The State Operations Group is made up of existing Marine Rescue NSW members who have developed additional skillsets,” Bowing said.

Marine Rescue NSW commissioner Alex Barrell said recruitment was ongoing, especially in flood-prone parts of the coast.

“We’re always looking for new volunteers, particularly in the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast – two of our busiest regions,” he said.

“There are a number of regional centres like Lismore, Grafton, Kempsey and Taree, where people can join our coastal units.

“If you’re thinking about joining Marine Rescue NSW, there’s no better time.”