Mines Rescue brigades were called to the Abel Mine near Newcastle on Friday, May 24 to test their emergency response skills in a series of simulated incidents. Competing in both underground and surface environments, teams applied their specialist training towards search and rescue, first aid and firefighting.

The Red team, captained by Jordan Mearns, narrowly defeated the White team to be named overall winners of the event. Jordan thanked Mines Rescue and the mine sites for allowing the teams to train and compete.

“Everyone I’ve spoken to said the day was one of the most challenging competitions we’ve had. It really tested the core skills we learn at brigades training,” said Jordan.

“I’ve been part of Mines Rescue for 13 years and I’m so very proud of the team’s efforts today. We had three first-time competitors, two of whom only completed their inductions in March. The team dug deep and it will be a day they’ll never forget.”

A formal presentation dinner was held to announce the winners and acknowledge the achievements of brigade members.

Shaun McDonnel and Malcolm Yule, who have 75 years’ Mines Rescue experience between them, were awarded the perpetual ‘Champions Award’ which recognises individuals who demonstrate Mines Rescue’s core values of ‘we care, we work together and we make a difference’.

The primary purpose of Mines Rescue is to provide emergency response to the NSW coal mining industry in the case of an emergency. Thankfully, major incidents requiring brigade response are limited. Events like these allow brigade members to practise and hone their skills in preparation for the unfortunate circumstance where they may be called upon.

“Competitions are a great opportunity to put teams under pressure in simulated environments,” explained Darren Parker, Regional Manager Mines Rescue.

“In addition to the various tasks we put them through, there is the added complexity where teams are put together on the day, so they may not know each other or may not have worked together before. It really tests their emergency response skills and how they work together as a team.”

These competitions are the first in a series of regional competitions hosted by NSW Mines Rescue. The winning teams from each region are invited to compete at the Australian competition to be held in later in the year.