Unfortunately, every so often, a grey nomad or other traveller requires rescuing from a remote location, often after they have taken off on a challenging bushwalk.
To be successful as often as they are, these rescues require a lot of resources, a lot of people prepared to step up to help … and a lot of training.
Last month, personnel from across Tasmania Parks and Wildlife (PWS), Ambulance Tasmania and Tasmania Police Search and Rescue recently took part in a hands-on training day designed to strengthen interagency partnerships and prepare responders for the demanding conditions often encountered in Tasmania’s wilderness.
Cradle Mountain Ranger in Charge Brendan Moodie said that while Tasmania Police is the lead agency for search and rescue operations in Tasmania, PWS staff are sometimes best positioned to provide an immediate response when emergencies unfold in remote areas.
A training participant manages a smile while erecting a tent despite the harsh winter conditions. PIC: Tasmania Parks and Wildlife
“Many of our staff are trained in wilderness and remote first aid, and these practical exercises give them the chance to practice their skills in the same harsh conditions they may encounter during an emergency response,” he said. “We thank Tasmania Police Search and Rescue and Ambulance Tasmania for sharing their expertise and providing the opportunity for us to test our skills with our partner agencies.”
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife said participants worked through a range of realistic rescue scenarios against a backdrop of snow, strong winds and temperatures that fell below zero degrees.
It said the exercise focused on assessing and treating hypothermic patients, selecting appropriate equipment for changing conditions, erecting shelters in high winds and snow, and deciding what essential gear should be prioritised during an initial response.
Anyone planning on heading out for a walk in Tasmania is asked to adequately prepared by following these PWS walker guidelines.
