Port Stephens SES Unit take out Road Crash Challenge win Port Stephens Port Stephens by News Of The Area - Modern Media - May 17, 2023 The team in action at the challenge. THE Port Stephens SES Unit competed at the NSW State Road Crash Challenge 2023 event on the Coffs Coast last week where the team once again took out top honours for their skills. David Douglas, Unit Controller of the Port Stephens SES told News Of The Area, “The event provided an exceptional occasion for teams from all corners of the state to convene, not only to compete against each other, but also to share knowledge and hone their skills collaboratively.” Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Port Stephens SES often attend road crashes alongside NSW Police, NSW Fire and Rescue and the NSW Ambulance. The SES team are involved in using equipment to extricate drivers and passengers from badly damaged vehicles, when conventional means of exit are impossible or inadvisable. The SES stabilise vehicles and use the ‘Jaws Of Life’ to get people out of road crash incidents. “The knowledge and skills we’ve honed over the past few months for this challenge ultimately serve to benefit the community and their safety. “Once again, it’s wonderful to see Port Stephens ranked at the top this year,” Mr Douglas said. “This achievement speaks not only to the skills of the team members, but also to the efforts of everyone at the Port Stephens unit who helped prepare them for the event, truly highlighting the unwavering commitment of our volunteers.” Competing in events against other SES teams ensures that everyone stays on top of their skills. “The team is thrilled to go on to the upcoming national challenge (ARRO) in Adelaide and is eager to give their best effort,” he said. Mark Rutter, NSW Fire and Rescue, Regional Events Coordinator for the Challenge told News Of The Area, “All teams were winners and had a great weekend and learned new skills that will assist them when called upon to perform their duties. “There was an environment of collaboration and sharing between agencies that will make for stronger, more resilient road and knowledgeable road crash rescue operators. “The learnings over the weekend will potentially end up saving lives on our roads,” said Mark. By Marian SAMPSON The Port Stephens SES Unit team at the NSW State Road Crash Challenge.
