Wingecarribee Shire Council staff and local agencies recently participated in NSW Government’s Welfare Services Functional Area (WSFA) exercise WURRI BANA, a mock evacuation centre drill simulating a natural disaster response.
The exercise, held at the Moss Vale RSL, aimed to test collaboration among different emergency groups and ensure everyone was everyone’s prepared to support the community during a crisis.
Corinne Buxton, Coordinator of Community Development, emphasised the exercise’s significance, stating, ” Exercise WURRI BANA was an important effort to strengthen how we respond locally and to confirm our operational plans.”
The exercise encompassed several key objectives, including the swift deployment of resources, establishment of operational frameworks, activation of community partnerships, delivery of essential welfare services, management of personnel shifts, real-time intelligence dissemination, and enhancing WSFA’s prominence within emergency management circles.
“This exercise not only tested our preparedness but also fostered collaboration across various stakeholders,” noted Corinne, highlighting the exercise’s role in demonstrating the practical application of Disaster Welfare training and analysing how well different emergency teams work together.
WURRI BANA also allowed officials to evaluate new emergency strategies and identify areas for improvement. This ongoing preparedness ensures the safety and well-being of the Wingecarribee community in times of need.
